Category: Vehicles

MIL-OSI Security: Rock Island Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Federal Prison for Gun Charge

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Rock Island man was sentenced on Thursday, January 30, 2025 to 151 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon.

According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Adrian Warren Neeley, 38, led officers on a high-speed chase from Rock Island, Illinois, over the Centennial Bridge, into Iowa on October 9, 2022. Officers in Rock Island received reports of a reckless driver, saw Neeley’s vehicle, and heard gunshots and observed muzzle flash from the area where the vehicle had turned. Neeley failed to obey traffic devices and signs and traveled at over 80 miles per hour in a 30-mile-per-hour zone. Neeley’s vehicle eventually became disabled and Neeley ran from the driver’s seat on foot. During the foot chase, Neeley dropped a firearm which was recovered after Neeley was apprehended.

Cartridge casings and a bullet recovered from a shooting near the Moline Police Department on August 21, 2022, were examined and determined to have been fired from the gun Neeley drop as he was attempting to flee from police. At sentencing, the Court found that Neeley shot at his significant other from a vehicle on August 21, 2022. Neeley has prior felony convictions, including a 2008 conviction in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine.

After completing his term of imprisonment, Neeley will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department, the Rock Island Police Department, the Moline Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Black History Month 2025

Source: US State of California 2

Feb 3, 2025

Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month.
The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

PROCLAMATION

This month, we pay homage to the rich history and contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our state and nation in countless ways through centuries of struggle and triumph. First proposed by scholar Carter G. Woodson in 1926, Black History Month lifts up the Black experience in a fuller telling of America’s story, and selects a theme to highlight facets of history that merit particular attention.

This year’s theme, Black Americans and labor, examines the intersection of employment and work with the Black American experience. From the atrocity of slavery to the rich legacy of Black entrepreneurship, the profound impact of Black labor in building and shaping our nation cannot be overstated.

American and Californian history has no shortage of Black business owners, labor leaders, CEOs, workers, and more. From the first years of California’s statehood, we have been home to changemakers like Mary Ellen Pleasant, one of the first self-made Black millionaires in the country, who owned numerous businesses and used her money to help fund the Underground Railroad and other abolition work.

Black communities and businesses have flourished throughout California. Altadena became the special community it is, home to a thriving middle-class community of professionals familiar with shattering glass ceilings. With twice the national Black homeownership rate, Altadena is home to scores of generational wealth and wide-reaching, beloved businesses. And as Altadena recovers from the devastation of the Eaton fires, we recognize, as a state, our responsibility to help support that recovery.

Black Americans have always contributed to our shared communities, our state, and our nation. In every role, from labor leaders to essential workers to CEOs, Black Californians have helped make this state the fifth-largest economy in the world, a leader in workers’ rights, and a state that stands for and supports workers and work across the board.

During Black History Month, let us reflect on our shared history, and draw inspiration from the progress made as we continue together on the path toward equality, liberty, and opportunity for all.

NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim February 2025, as “Black History Month.”

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 3rd day of February 2025.

GAVIN NEWSOM
Governor of California

ATTEST:
SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
Secretary of State

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MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: State Accounting Department transitions to renewable energy equipment

Source: US State of Hawaii

State Accounting Department transitions to renewable energy equipment

Posted on Feb 3, 2025 in Main

HONOLULU – The state is investing in more green-energy lawnmowers to maintain its greens. The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) is concluding a trial period using an electric lawnmower and has decided to move forward with obtaining more electric lawnmowers as the need arises, to replace an aging fleet.

“This is in line with Hawai‘i’s commitment to achieve the nation’s first-ever 100 percent renewable portfolio standards (RPS), as stated in The Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. On Tuesday, Governor Green outlined new policy objectives and directives for the state of Hawaiʻi, including accelerating renewable development for neighbor island communities to hit 100% renewable portfolio standards from 2045 to 2035, setting a statewide goal of 50,000 distributed renewable energy installations (such as rooftop solar and battery systems) by 2030, and directing state departments to streamline and accelerate the permitting of renewable developments to reduce energy costs and project development timelines.

In March 2024, DAGS’ Central Services Division (CSD) leased-to-own its first battery-powered mower. DAGS Director and Comptroller Keith Regan said, “It’s faster, quieter and more economical. By leasing the vehicle, we are given a free loaner if it breaks. Therefore, we don’t lose productivity waiting for a mower to be fixed.”

CSD’s Grounds Maintenance Program services 115 sites across 98 acres statewide, including public office buildings, libraries, health centers and civic centers. CSD owns three diesel-powered mowers and two gas-powered mowers.

It costs about $800 a month to power a gas mower compared to $260 for an electric one. Administrator James Kurata estimates this saves the state about $6,500 a year. He added, “We’re pleased to be part of the solution to reduce our dependency on oil.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DAGS VNR: STATE ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT TRANSITIONS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT

Source: US State of Hawaii

DAGS VNR: STATE ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT TRANSITIONS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT

Posted on Feb 3, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

STATE OF HAWAIʻI

KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND GENERAL SERVICES

KA ʻOIHANA LOIHELU A LAWELAWE LAULĀ

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR

KE KIAʻĀINA

KEITH A. REGAN

COMPTROLLER

KA LUNA HOʻOMALU HANA LAULĀ

MEOH-LENG SILLIMAN

DEPUTY COMPTROLLER

KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOMALU HANA LAULĀ

STATE ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT TRANSITIONS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT

The Move Aligns with the Governor’s Goal to Achieve 100% Clean Energy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Feb. 1, 2025

HONOLULU — The state is investing in more green-energy lawnmowers to maintain its greens. The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) is concluding a trial period using an electric lawnmower and has decided to move forward with obtaining more electric lawnmowers as the need arises, to replace an aging fleet.

“This is in line with Hawai‘i’s commitment to achieve the nation’s first-ever 100 percent renewable portfolio standards (RPS), as stated in The Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative ,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. On Tuesday, Governor Green outlined new policy objectives and directives for the state of Hawaiʻi, including accelerating renewable development for neighbor island communities to hit 100% renewable portfolio standards from 2045 to 2035, setting a statewide goal of 50,000 distributed renewable energy installations (such as rooftop solar and battery systems) by 2030, and directing state departments to streamline and accelerate the permitting of renewable developments to reduce energy costs and project development timelines.

In March 2024, DAGS’ Central Services Division (CSD) leased-to-own its first battery-powered mower. DAGS Director and Comptroller Keith Regan said, “It’s faster, quieter and more economical. By leasing the vehicle, we are given a free loaner if it breaks. Therefore, we don’t lose productivity waiting for a mower to be fixed.”

CSD’s Grounds Maintenance Program services 115 sites across 98 acres statewide, including public office buildings, libraries, health centers and civic centers. CSD owns three diesel-powered mowers and two gas-powered mowers.

It costs about $800 a month to power a gas mower compared to $260 for an electric one. Administrator James Kurata estimates this saves the state about $6,500 a year. He added, “We’re pleased to be part of the solution to reduce our dependency on oil.”

RESOURCES

(Image courtesy: DAGS)

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/j4kg2i77h8u9cuylnrod8/ACPFQWK2a73-rTj5sS3DQ1o?rlkey=gvqhg1uj01uvgc5y773lddba5&st=10j9j0fs&dl=0

(3 soundbites, b roll, stills for web, script)

# # #

DAGS’s electric lawnmowers

Script and tease

VO SOT:

CG: More electric lawnmowers for State/ Honolulu

The State is investing in more green-energy lawnmowers to maintain its greens. The Department of Accounting and General Services or “Dags” (said like one word) is ending a nearly one-year trial period using an electric lawnmower. It has decided to move forward with leasing more battery-powered mowers, to replace its aging fleet.

This supports the Governor’s renewable energy policy. On Tuesday, Governor Green set new objectives for the state, including accelerating 100% renewable energy goals for neighbor islands– TEN years earlier, by 2035.

DAGS cuts the grass at 115 sites across 98 acres statewide.

“SOT Keith Regan” KEITH REGAN/ DAGS DIRECTOR AND COMPTROLLER

0:15 We’re investing in electric mowers because we are trying to go green with the way we’re operating our equipment, and this is a good opportunity for us to leverage existing or new technology. 25

“SOT James Kurata” JAMES KURATA/ DAGS CENTRAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR

0:41We like it because it’s one, it’s quieter. It, it, it’s in line with the state’s initiative for greening or green initiatives to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, it reduces our maintenance costs with less moving or less moving parts. 0:59

TRAILING VO

It costs about $800 a month to power a gas mower- compared to $260 for an electric one. Kurata (koo-ROT-ah) estimates this saves the State about $6,500 a year.

TEASE:

“SOT Keith Regan” KEITH REGAN/ DAGS DIRECTOR AND COMPTROLLER

1:06 these mowers are clean, quiet, and effective.

IT’S ELECTRIC! THE STATE’S MAKING THE SWITCH TO BATTERY-POWERED LAWNMOWERS. WHY IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR TAXPAYER DOLLARS. THAT’S NEXT.

Diane Ako | Communications Officer

Office of the Comptroller

State Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS)

Kalanimoku Building – 1151 Punchbowl Street #412

Honolulu, HI 96813

[email protected]

Cell: 808-764-7256

Desk: 808-586-0404

Fax: 808-586-0775

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pilgrimage Sites Transformed Under Prasad Scheme

Source: Government of India

Ministry of Tourism

Pilgrimage Sites Transformed Under Prasad Scheme

Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 4:32PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Tourism under the “Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive” (PRASHAD) provides financial assistance to the State Governments and Union Territories Administrations for development of tourism infrastructure at identified pilgrimage and heritage destinations.

Components of Infrastructure development admissible under the scheme includes development/upgradation of destination entry points viz. passenger terminals (of road, rail and water transport), basic conveniences like tourism information/interpretation Centres with ATM/ Money exchange counters, improvement of road connectivity (last mile connectivity), procurement of equipment for eco-friendly modes of transport and equipment for tourist activities such as Light & Sound Show, renewable sources of energy for tourist infrastructure, parking facilities, toilets, cloak room facilities, waiting rooms, construction of craft haats/bazars/souvenir shops/cafeteria, rain shelters, watch towers, first aid centers, improvement in communication through establishing telephone booths, mobile services, internet connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspot among others.

The details of the projects sanctioned along with major components developed under the scheme is given in the annexure.

Under the scheme, three sites have been identified for development in Maharashtra namely, Shri Ghrushneshwar Shivalaya, Tuljapur and Shre Kshetra Rajur. Receiving proposals from the State Governments/UT Administrations for financial assistance for tourism projects is a continuous process. The proposals received are examined with reference to the prescribed guidelines and financial assistance is extended for such projects subject to fulfilment of the stipulated conditions and availability of funds.

This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

***

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

E-mail: – tourism4pib[at]gmail[dot]com

ANNEXURE

List of projects sanctioned under PRASHAD Scheme (Rs. in Crore)

State/UT	S. No.	Project Name	Major components	Sanction Year	Approved Cost
Andhra Pradesh		Development of Pilgrim Amenities at Amaravati	• Development at AmaralingeshwaraSwamy Temple (Tourist Amenities, Beautification- Land hardscape &softscape, Infrastructure provision & management) • Mahachaitya Stupa & ASI Museum (Tourist Amenities, Infrastructure provision & management, Safety & security) • Dhyana Buddha Site Development (Beautification, Infrastructure provision & management) • Ghat Development • Urban Infrastructure Development (Enhancing mobility, Entry gate to Amravati, Eco-friendly vehicles)	2015-16	27.77
		Development of Srisailam Temple	• Development at Main temple (Illumination, Sound & Light show, Amphitheatre, Brass queues) • Sikharam (Tourist amenity centre, changing room, lighting of sikharam area, viewing deck, parking) • Tourist Amenity Centre at Hatakeswara • PanchaMathas (pathway, lighting) • Development works at Patalaganga (jetty, changing room) • Common Toilet Complexes including Drinking water facility at 8 locations • Road Improvement Works • Tourist facilitation centre	2017-18	43.08
		Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narsimha Swami VariDevasthanam at Simhachalam	• Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre • Ghat road development (Viewpoints & parking with watch towers, Upgradation of steps) • Temple Amenities and infrastructure with Amphitheatre (Illumination, Development of steps, Parking, Yagyashaala) • Kitchen mechanization • Multipurpose hall • Pan area Development (Multimedia center with Augmented Reality (AR) setup, Electric mini vans, Signage, Baggage screening)	2022-23	54.04
		Development of Pilgrimage Tourism Infrastructure in Annavaram Temple Town	Queue Complex Annadanam Building E-vehicles Male and Female Toilets at Satyagiri hill	2024-25	25.33
Arunachal Pradesh		Development of Parshuram Kund	• Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre • Ghat road development (Viewpoints & parking with watch towers, Upgradation of steps) • Temple Amenities and infrastructure with Amphitheatre (Illumination, Development of steps, Parking, Yagyashaala) • Kitchen mechanization • Multipurpose hall • Pan area Development (Multimedia center with Augmented Reality (AR) setup, Electric mini vans, Signage, Baggage screening)	2020-21	37.88
Assam		Development of Pilgrimage amenities at Kamakhya Temple	• Development of existing 3Nos of foot tracks to Kamakhya Temple from foothill • AmbubachiMela Ground Development • Multistoried car parking (Parking, cloak room, Baby care & senior citizen rest centers, public toilet) • Construction of viewpoints • Site development & retaining wall	2015-16	29.80
Bihar		Development at Patna Sahib	• Development at Patna Sahib (Illumination, dustbin, CCTV) • Linked infrastructure (City wide signage, Tourist information centre at Railway centre, External Street lighting, Illumination at Gaighat&Handisahab) • Development at KanganGhat (TFC, River ghat development, sitting area, upgradation of Kanganghat) • Development at Guru KaBagh (Sound & light show, Illumination)	2015-16	29.62
Bihar		Development of basic facilities at Vishnupad temple	• Public Conveniences • Yatri Sheds • Development of Temple Fore Court • Area Illumination • Street Scaping& Parking • Development of SitaKund and GayatriGhat (Changing room, toilet block, pilgrimage shed, drinking water kiosk, solar high mast light)	2014-15	3.63
Chhattisgarh		Development of Pilgrimage amenities at MaaBamleshwari Devi Temple	• Development of MaaBambleshwari Devi Temple (hand railing & shed along the steps, Rest areas, Medical room, Solar lights, Parking, Development of lake front) • Development of Pragyagiri (Meditation center, Cafeteria, Solar illumination, Parking) • Development of Pilgrimage facilitation centre (Shri Yantra building, Solar illumination, Landscaping, Boundary wall, CC road)	2020-21	48.44
Goa		Development of Bom Jesus Basilica	•Parking •Interpretation Centre •External / Street Lighting •E-Auto •Monument facade Illumination •CI Park Bench •Informational & Directional Signage •Dust Bins •Visitor footfall counting device	2024-25	16.46
Gujarat		Development of Dwarka	•Development at Dwarkadhish Temple (Queue complex, Illumination, Temporary shading device) •Development at New GomtiGhat (Drinking water facility, Landscaping) •Development at Old GomtiGhat (Drinking water facility, Illumination of temple, Flooring, Temporary shading device) •Development at Rukshmani Temple (Toilet, Illumination, Parking & Pathway) •City-wide Interventions (Directional & Informational Signage) •Interventions at Railway Station (Tourist reception centre, Drinking water facility, Landscaping, CCTV) •Interventions at Bus Stand (TRC, Drinking water facility, Landscaping, CCTV)	2016-17	10.46
		Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Somnath	•Parking Area development (Toilet, Cloak room, cafeteria, signage, public address system) •Tourist Facilitation Centre (TFC, Campus & site development, electrification works) •Solid Waste Management System	2016-17	45.36
		Development of Promenade at Somnath	•Excavation & ground improvement •Rubble •Walkway Pavement •Tetrapod •Kiosk, Seating Arrangements, Drinking water, Dust bin •High Mast Light •Electric Pole with music system and area	2018-19	47.12
		Development of Pilgrimage Facilities at Ambaji Temple	•Intervention at Ambaji temple (TFC, Approach Road, Pathway, Parking, Toilet block) •Approach road to Gabbar Hill (Toilet block, Stone pathway, Drinking water facility, Shaded resting areas, Electrical work, Signage)	2022-23	50.00
Haryana		Development of Mata Mansa Devi Temple and Nada SahebGurudwara	•Development at Gurudwara Nada Saheb (Façade illumination, Surface parking, Toilet block, STP, Covered pathway, Multilevel car parking, Entrance gate, Landscaping) •Mansa Devi Temple Area Development (Façade illumination, Plaza development, Gazebo, First aid facility) •Parking Area Development (TFC, Parking, Cultural activity area, Roads) •Integrated area development (Pathways, Benches, Signage, Toilet block)	2019-20	48.53
Jammu and Kashmir		Development at Hazratbal Shrine	•Development of existing inner approach road to the shrine •Site development (Boundary wall, Improvement of ghats and Devri Paths, Landscaping, Illumination) •Public convenience block and entrance gateway •Tensile structure for shading •Prefabricated shopping kiosks •Tourist Facilitation Center •Multi storied car parking	2016-17	40.46
Jharkhand		Development of Baba Baidya Nath Dham	•Shivganga Pond Development (Paving with footpath, Street furniture, Mandapas, Retaining wall, Entrance Arch, High mast & area lighting) •Jalsar lake front Development (Jalsar waterfront development, Walkway, Mandapa, Pergola, Retaining wall, City entrance gateways) •Kanwaria Path Development (Spiritual congregation hall, Community toilet, First aid centre, Landscape & paving, Drinking water kiosk) •Approach Pathways (Paving of approach roads, CCTV cameras, people counting system for temple, Control & command center and Jyotirlinga theme walk)	2018-19	36.79
Karnataka		Development of Pilgrimage Amenities at Sri Chamundeshwari Devi Temple	•Development at Chamundi Temple Premises (Queue Mandapam Stretch, Multipurpose Area & Stage, Cloak room, Illumination) •Pilgrimage Facilities development at Mahisasura plaza (Amenities block, Entrance stone arch, Illumination) •Development at Devikere (Handrails for entire steps, Steps and mandapa beautification) •Nandi Statue Pavilion Development (Queue Mandapam, Paver area development) •Devi Pada Redevelopment (Steps and mandapa beautification, Handrails for entire steps)	2023-24	45.71
Kerala		Development at Guruvayur Temple	•Tourist Facilitation Centre •Tourist Amenity Centre •Multi-Level Car Parking (MLCP) •CCTV Network Infrastructure	2016-17	45.19
Madhya Pradesh		Development of Amarkantak	•Development around Narmada Mandir (Gateway, Waiting pavilion, Dining & kitchen for prasad distribution, Kiosks, Street furniture) •Illumination of Temples •Development of Indra Daman Lake, Ma kiBagia, KapilDhara •Development of Ghat at South Bank, Sonmuda •Development of Mela Ground, Ped Street •Development of Tourist Facility Centre •Development of Public Amenities	2020-21	49.99
Madhya Pradesh		Development of Omkareshwar	•Development works at Omkareshwar Temple (Darshan hall, Waiting hall, Foot bridge on river side with retaining wall, Medical room, Prasad counters) •Development of GauGhat (Renovation & extension of ghat, food court & day shelter, security booth, changing room, florist shops) •Development of JP Chowk (Uniform façade elevation, entrance public plaza) •Pilgrimage Walk (covered walkway, entrance gate, parikrama path, steps from Brahmeshwar temple to Gaughat, Renovation of existing steps, widening of existing pathway) •Sound & Light Show •Linked Infra (Development of sheds for shopping streets, day shelters, watch tower, security booth cum information kiosk, signage, toilet, solid waste management)	2017-18	43.93
Maharashtra		Development of Trimbakeshwar	•TrimbakeshwarParikrama (Holy Pond/lake development, Landscaping, Junction improvement) •Tourism/ Pilgrimage Infrastructure, Trimbak Town (TFC, Parking, PFC at Sangam) •Pilgrimage Parikrama of Anjaneri- Trimbak- Brahmagiri (Camping & waiting area, Community Hall, Changing room, Toilet) •Development Work at Shri NivruttinathMaharaj Samadhi Temple (Queuing complex, administrative block, Cloak and waiting rooms)	2017-18	42.18
Meghalaya		Development of Pilgrimage Facilitation at Nongswalia Church, NartiangShakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple	•Development at Nongswalia Church (Entrance gates, Welsh history interpretation centre, pathway, parking, public convenience, Pilgrimage walk, Illumination) •Development at Nartiang Shakti Peeth (Pilgrimage facilitation center, pathway, illumination, parking, signage) •Development at Aitnar Pool (Festival gallery area development, Behdeinkhlam festival facilitation centre, AR-VR at facilitation centre) •Development at Charantala Kali Temple (Vehicular cross bridge, Approach Road, Retaining wall, PFC)	2020-21	29.29
Mizoram		Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism at ChiteVang, Zuangtai, Reiek and Aizawl	•Heritage Congregation Centre, Aizwal •Prayer Mountain, Zuangtai (PFC with viewing gallery, signage, Multipurpose Hall & kitchen) •Development at Khuangchera Cave (PFC, Safety equipment required for visiting the cave) •Development at KalvariTiang, Aizwal (Protective railing, PFC, Lighting, Rain shelter, Signage, Wooden benches)	2022-23	44.89
Nagaland		Development of Pilgrimage Infrastructure at Molungkimong, Noksen Church, Aizuto, Wokha and Kohima	•Development at Molungkimong (Church gate, Toilet, Interpretation centre, Illumination, Signage, Approach Road) •Development at Noksen Church (Pilgrimage arrival centre, Illumination, Parking, Approach Road, Retaining wall) •Development at Mission Compound, Aizuto (Sacred Pond edge lining area development, Illumination, PFC, Approach Road, Signage, Rain Shelter) •Development at Cathedral of Kohima (Entrance gate, Illumination, Interpretation centre, Signage, Parking, Retaining wall) •Wayside amenity-Wokha	2018-19	25.20
Nagaland		Development of Pilgrimage Tourism Infrastructure at Zunheboto	•Naga Entrance Gate •Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre •Illumination of Sumi Baptist Church •Multilevel Car Parking	2022-23	18.18
Odisha		Infrastructure Development at Puri	•Tourist Facilitation Centre at Puri •Development of Beach at Shree JagannathDhamPuri (Benches, Drinking water facilities, Public convenience, signage, watch tower, food court) •Development of Ramchandi Temple •Development of Shree JagannathVishramsthali and Amphitheatre •Development at Gundicha temple (Dustbins, landscaping, pathways, signage, illumination) •Development at Prachi River Front (Drinking water facilities,Entrance gate, prayer hall, bridge to connect temple campus, steps, walkway) •Development at MaaMangla Temple (Drinking water facilities, dustbins, pathways, public convenience, signage)	2014-15	50.00
Punjab		Development of KarunaSagar Valmiki Sthal at Amritsar	•External sewerage •Water Supply •Toilet blocks & cloak room •Landscaping •Solid Waste collection & management •Main gate structure •Road widening and beautification	2015-16	6.40
Punjab		Development of Chamkaur Sahib	•Tourist Facilitation Centre at Puri •Development of Beach at Shree JagannathDhamPuri (Benches, Drinking water facilities, Public convenience, signage, watch tower, food court) •Development of Ramchandi Temple •Development of Shree JagannathVishramsthali and Amphitheatre •Development at Gundicha temple (Dustbins, landscaping, pathways, signage, illumination) •Development at Prachi River Front (Drinking water facilities,Entrance gate, prayer hall, bridge to connect temple campus, steps, walkway) •Development at MaaMangla Temple (Drinking water facilities, dustbins, pathways, public convenience, signage)	2021-22	31.57
Rajasthan		Integrated Development of Pushkar/ Ajmer	•Development at Ajmer Sharif Dargah (Refurbishment of façade, Tensile fabric structure, Shading devices) •Improvement of Delhi gate and Dargah gate chowk (Illumination, Refurbishment work) •Tourist information kiosk at railway & bus stand Restoration & development works at Pushkar Sarovar, Pushkar Market Street •Development work at Brahma temple, Savitri Mata temple &Parikrama Path, Pushkar	2015-16	32.64
Sikkim		Development of Pilgrimage Facilitation at Four Patron Saints, Yuksom	•Coronation Throne of Norbugang (Approach Road, Traditional gate, Illumination) •Pilgrimage facilities near helipad (PFC, parking and entrance gate, Landscaping) •Pilgrimage stopover facility at Rimbi	2020-21	33.32
Tamil Nadu		Development of Kanchipuram	•Bus terminus upgradation (Tourist information centre, cloak room, RO plant) •Pilgrimage walk (Pathway, pedestrian guard rail, signage) •Ekambareswarar temple (Parking platform, Security room, Compound wall) •Rangaswamy tank rejuvenation (Entrance Arch & Gate, Seating facilities, Pathway) •Illumination of monuments	2016-17	13.99
Tamil Nadu		Development of Velankanni	•Velankanni beach (Paver block road) •Bus stand (Toilet block) •Improvement of Oorani-MariammanKulam •City level interventions (CCTV, Wi-Fi, Control room, Street lighting)	2016-17	4.86
Telangana		Development of Jogulamba Devi Temple	•Connectivity Node (New bus stand, Cultural haat) •Pilgrimage Facilitation Node (Pilgrim facilitation cum Cultural centre, Public amenity complex, Pathway) •Approach Level Intervention (Rain shelter, High mast lighting, Signage) •Jogulamba Temple Premises (Parking complex, Lightng& illumination, Alternate access road, Shower & changing room, Solid waste management) •Tungabhadra Ghat (Floating jetty, Landscaping, Cruise boat, Illumination) •Other ASI Sites (Proposed new access to Sangamedhwara temple)	2020-21	38.90
		Development of Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism Infrastructure at Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple	•Interpretation Centre •Amphitheater •4D Movie Hall •Sculpture Park •Lakefront Development •Bus and car Parking Area	2022-23	62.00
		Development of Pilgrimage Infrastructure at Bhadrachalam	•Development works at Main Temple (Change of flooring, MS roofing structure, Mechanization for Prasadam production) •Development around Main Temple (Approach Road, Pilgrim amenities centre, Ghat area development- Changing room, Toilet, Jetty) •Town Entrance (Entrance bridge, Washroom & canteen complex, Compound wall, Chain link fencing, Battery operated cars) •Development works at Parnasala and SeethammaVaagu (Pilgrim amenities centre, Street light, Kiosks, Foot over bridge, Toilet) •Allied development works (Street lighting, Signage, CCTV)	2022-23	41.38
Tripura		Development of Tripura Sundari Temple	•Development of Main Temple area (Food court, Meditation Hall, Illumination, Pooja shops) •Covered Aastha Path (Flooring, Railing, Roofing) •External Development works (Foot over bridge, STP, Signage Entrance gate, Toilet)	2020-21	34.43
Uttar Pradesh		Development of Varanasi –Phase –I	•Sound & Light show •Integrated development of MarkandeyMahadev temple (Shade for pathway and railing, Gantry signage, campus illumination) •SarangNath Pond Rejuvenation (Retaining wall, ghat development, viewing deck, gazebos, pathways) •Buddha Theme Park, Sarnath (Gazebos, feature wall, parking) •Conservation and development of Gurudham temple (Softscape, Hardscape, New gate, Toilet, Illumination)	2015-16	18.73
		Development of Mathura-Vrindavan as Mega Tourist Circuit (Ph-II)	•Krishna Sarovar, Baad, Mathura (Landscaping, Chain link, Pathway, Information centre, Kund rejuvenation centre, Toilet, Open air stage, Sitting place, Ghat development) •Jai Kund, Jait, Mathura (Landscaping, Chain link, Pathway, Kund rejuvenation, provision of fountain for movement of Kund water, ghat development) •Chandra Sarovar, Chaumuha, Mathura (Landscaping, Chain link, Construction of bore well, Kund rejuvenation, ghat development) •Akbar kataal Mathura (Kund rejuvenation, Entry gate, Toilet, Open air stage)	2014-15	10.98
		Development of River Cruise Tourism at Varanasi	•Passenger cum cruise vessel •320 sq. m. HDPE modular system Jetty (pontoon) •Aesthetics & vernacular exterior finish of the cruise vessel & jetty •Audiovisual intervention (Story board) •Surveillance & security •CCTV surveillance	2017-18	9.02
		Construction of Tourist Facilitation Centre at Vrindavan	•Cost of building (Souvenir shops, Tourist assistance counter, Tourist waiting area, Toilets, driver lunge, covered parking) •Internal development cost (Boundary wall, Rainwater harvesting, Electrification)	2014-15	9.36
		Development of Varanasi – Phase II	•Godowliachowk to DashashwamedhGhat (Street pedestrianization& footpath, Façade development) •Varanasi by Night (Lighting of ghats, Raj ghat to bridge- Toilts, Road improvement, TIC, Parking, River boat platform) •Revitalization of PanchkoshiParikarma (Road development, PFC, Signage)	2017-18	44.60
		Development of Infrastructure facilities at Govardhan	•Development at Govardhan Bus Station (Car stand block, Cloak room, Toilet, Boundary wall) •Development at GovardhanParikrama (Street Furniture, CCTV, WiFi) •Development at Chandra Sarovar (Toilet, Ticket counter, Pathway, bench, Landscaping, Solar light) •Development at KusumSarovar (Illumination, Toilet, Paved pathway) •Development at Mansi Ganga (Pilgrim amenities, Lighting of ghats, Connecting bridge from temple to amenity block)	2018-19	37.59
Uttarakhand		Integrated Development of Kedarnath	•Development at Rudraprayag (Eco-log interpretation centre, Snaanghat, Signage, Sitting arrangement, Parking, Viewpoint) •Development at Tilwara (Parking, Sitting arrangement, Signage) •Development at Augustmuni (Rest shelter, Viewpoint, Toilet, Approach Road, Tourist information/Assistance centre& souvenir shop, Parking) •Development at Ukhimath (Approach Road, Eco-log interpretation centre, Multilevel parking) •Development at Guptkashi (Toilet, Signage, Parking, Solid waste management, Solar LED streetlight) •Development at Kalimath (Retaining wall, Approach Road, Solar LED streetlight) •Development at Sitapur (TIC, Sitting arrangement, Solar LED streetlight)	2015-16	34.77
		Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage Facilitation in Badrinath Ji Dham	•Temple complex and surrounding area (Illumination, Waste management, Storm water drainage) •Development at Aastha Path (Solar lights, Dust bins, Benches) •Pilgrimage Facilitation Centre •Parking Complex, Tourist management system, Tourist arrival plaza	2018-19	56.15
		Augmentation of Pilgrimage Infrastructure Facilities at Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham	•Development at Gangotri Temple (PFC, Rejuvenation of temple verandah, Entry gate, LED illumination, public amenities Pilgrimage registration & dynamic crowd management system, Alarm system at ghat, Parking) •Development at Yamnotri (Entry gate, LED illumination, Development of ghat, Pilgrimage information centre, public convenience) •Trek from JankiChatti to Yamnotri (Rain shelter &parademiccentre, Publlic convenience, Benches, Signage) •Development at Kharsali (Approach Road, Entry gate, Illumination, Landscaping)	2021-22	54.36
West Bengal		Development of Belur Math	•Solid Waste Management •Signage & giant LED display •Provision of pathway •Drinking water kiosks and hand washing facility •Tourist reception center, Gangway & jetty •Multi-level car parking •Installation of roof top solar panels	2016-17	30.03

****

(Release ID: 2099160)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 4, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic arrangements for Hong Kong Marathon 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Police will implement special traffic arrangements on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon West and New Territories South to facilitate the Hong Kong Marathon 2025 on February 9 (Sunday).

Hong Kong Island
—————-

A. Road closure and traffic diversions

     The following will be implemented by phases on February 9 until the roads are safe for reopening, except for vehicles with permit:

Phase I (from 1.15am to about 10.30am)

Road closure

      Eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between Wan Chai and Island Eastern Corridor (IEC) will be closed, eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between Central and Wan Chai will be reopened at about 1.30pm.

Traffic diversions

      Traffic along eastbound Connaught Road West flyover heading for eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel, eastbound IEC and Eastern Harbour Crossing will be diverted via eastbound Connaught Road West at-grade, eastbound Connaught Road Central at-grade, Man Kat Street, Connaught Road Central, Gloucester Road, Victoria Park Road, Gordon Road, Electric Road and Java Road.

Phase II (from 1.15am to about 1.30pm)

Road closure

– Eastbound Connaught Road West flyover between Shing Sai Road and Rumsey Street;
– Man Po Street;
– Yiu Sing Street;
– Eastbound Lung Wo Road;
– The slip road from Connaught Road West flyover to Man Po Street;
– The slip road from Connaught Road West flyover to eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel;
– The slip road from Man Kat Street to the exit at Wan Chai on eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel;
– Eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between Central and Wan Chai;
– The exit at Expo Drive on eastbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel;
– Expo Drive;
– Expo Drive Central between westside Expo Drive and eastside Expo Drive;
– Southbound Expo Drive East; and
– Northbound Expo Drive East between Expo Drive and the northern cul-de-sac.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along northbound Hill Road flyover will be diverted via eastbound Connaught Road West at-grade;
– Traffic along eastbound Shing Sai Road will be diverted via eastbound Connaught Road West;
– Traffic along Lung Wo Road cannot turn to westbound Yiu Sing Street;
– Traffic along Man Yiu Street cannot turn left to eastbound Lung Wo Road; and
– Traffic along Man Yiu Street cannot turn left to eastbound Yiu Sing Street.

Phase III (from 1.30am to about 10.30am)

Road closure

– Eastbound IEC between Victoria Park Road eastbound and Tung Hei Road slip road; and
– The slip roads of Hing Fat Street, Man Hong Street and Taikoo Wan Road leading to eastbound IEC.

Phase IV (from 1.30am to about 11.30am)

Road closure

– Westbound IEC between Tung Hei Road slip road and westbound Victoria Park Road;
– The slip roads of Nam On Street, Chai Wan Road, Tai Hong Street, Oi Shun Road, Hong On Street, Taikoo Wan Road, westbound King’s Road junction with Healthy Street Central, Tong Shui Road and Wharf Road leading to westbound IEC;
– The slip roads leading from the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing to westbound IEC. The section up between the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing and the down ramp slip road leading to Man Hong Street will be reopened at about 10.30am;
– Westbound Oi Shun Road between Oi Tak Road and Tai On Street;
– Westbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel between IEC and Wan Chai; and
– The slip road leading from Tsing Fung Street vehicular flyover and Hing Fat Street to westbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along eastbound Victoria Park Road and Hing Fat Street heading for eastbound IEC and Eastern Harbour Crossing will be diverted via Gordon Road, Electric Road and Java Road;
– Traffic along Java Road and Man Hong Street heading for eastbound IEC and Eastern Harbour Crossing will be diverted via King’s Road;
– Traffic along Taikoo Wan Road heading for eastbound IEC will be diverted via King’s Road and Shau Kei Wan Road;
– Traffic along Java Road and eastbound King’s Road can access Eastern Harbour Crossing via Hong On Street;
– Traffic from the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing heading for eastbound IEC will be diverted via Tai On Street and Shau Kei Wan Road;
– Traffic along westbound IEC will be diverted via Nam On Lane and Shau Kei Wan Road;
– Traffic along Nam On Lane and Nam Hong Street heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound Nam On Street, Sun Sing Street and Shau Kei Wan Road;
– Traffic along Chai Wan Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Shau Kei Wan Road;
– Traffic diverted to westbound Shau Kei Wan Road can access Eastern Harbour Crossing via Tai Ning Street, Sai Wan Ho Street and Tai Hong Street;
– Traffic along Tai Hong Street will only be allowed for access to Eastern Harbour Crossing and Lei King Wan. Traffic heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Tai Hong Street, Hong Cheung Street, Tai On Street and Shau Kei Wan Road;
– Traffic along westbound Oi Shun Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Oi Tak Street, Oi Kan Road, Tai On Street and Oi Shun Street;
– Traffic along Hong On Street will only be allowed for access to and from Eastern Harbour Crossing. Traffic heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound Hong On Street and King’s Road. Except for vehicles heading for Eastern Harbour Crossing, traffic along Hong Yue Street will be diverted via westbound Hong On Street;
– Traffic along Taikoo Wan Road slip road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Taikoo Shing Road and King’s Road;
– Traffic from the exit of Eastern Harbour Crossing heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Man Hong Street and King’s Road (until 4am);
– Traffic on the slip road at the junction of westbound King’s Road and Healthy Street Central heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound King’s Road;
– Traffic on the slip road at the junction of westbound King’s Road and Tong Shui Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound King’s Road;
– Traffic along Tong Shui Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Java Road, Kam Hong Street and King’s Road;
– Traffic along Wharf Road slip road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via westbound Wharf Road, North Point Road, Java Road, Tong Shui Road and King’s Road; and
– Traffic along Tsing Fung Street vehicular flyover and northbound Hing Fat Street heading for the slip road of westbound Central-Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel will be diverted via the remaining lanes on Victoria Park Road.

Phase V (from 3am to about 8.30am)

Road closure

– Eastbound Harbour Road between Harbour Drive and Tonnochy Road; and
– Northbound Tonnochy Road between Hung Hing Road and Harbour Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along northbound Tonnochy Road flyover will be diverted via westbound Harbour Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Harbour Road will be diverted via northbound Fleming Road; and
– Traffic leaving from car parks along eastbound Harbour Road will be diverted via westbound Harbour Road.

Phase VI (from 3am to about 1.30pm)

Road closure

– Man Kwong Street;
– Man Fai Street;
– The slip road between Rumsey Street and Man Kwong Street;
– Southbound Man Yiu Street between Man Kwong Street and Lung Wo Road; and
– Northbound Man Yiu Street between Man Po Street and Man Kwong Street.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along eastbound Chung Kong Road will be diverted via Connaught Road Central;
– Traffic along eastbound Connaught Road Central cannot turn left to Man Kwong Street; and
– Traffic along northbound Man Yiu Street will be diverted via westbound Finance Street.

Phase VII (from 3am to about 2pm)

Road closure

– Eastbound Hung Hing Road between Expo Drive East and Wan Shing Street;
– Westbound Hung Hing Road between Wan Shing Street and Tonnochy Road;
– The fast lane of eastbound Harbour Road between Harbour Drive and Tonnochy Road;
– The fast lane of northbound Tonnochy Road between Hung Hing Road and Harbour Road;
– Southbound Tonnochy Road between Harbour Road and Gloucester Road;
– Marsh Road flyover between Hung Hing Road and Lockhart Road;
– Northbound Marsh Road between Hung Hing Road and Gloucester Road;
– Eastbound Lockhart Road between Marsh Road and Percival Street;
– Southbound Percival Street between Lockhart Road and Hennessy Road;
– Percival Street (except the middle lane) between Jaffe Road and Lockhart Road;
– Southbound Canal Road East between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road;
– Northbound Canal Road West between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road;
– Southbound Marsh Road between Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road;
– Marsh Road between Hennessy Road and Lockhart Road;
– Eastbound Hennessy Road between Percival Street and Yee Wo Street;
– Eastbound Yee Wo Street;
– Sugar Street;
– Southbound Gloucester Road between Great George Street and Causeway Road. Access to the southbound Tai Hang Road flyover is allowed after 10.45am; and
– Northbound Gloucester Road between the U-turn slip road beneath Tai Hang Road flyover and Great George Street.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along northbound Fleming Road cannot turn right to eastbound Hung Hing Road and will be diverted via southbound Fleming Road or westbound Lung Wo Road;
– Traffic along northbound Wan Shing Street must turn right to Hung Hing Road flyover;
– Traffic along northbound Marsh Road will be diverted via Gloucester Road service road or turn to southbound Marsh Road for access to Jaffe Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Lockhart Road will be diverted via northbound Marsh Road at grade;
– Traffic along eastbound Jaffe Road will be diverted via northbound Percival Street;
– Traffic along southbound Percival Street will be diverted via eastbound Lockhart Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Hennessy Road cannot turn left to Marsh Road;
– Traffic along Tin Lok Lane cannot go straight to northbound Marsh Road, and must turn left or right to Hennessy Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Hennessy Road heading for Causeway Road will be diverted via southbound Percival Street, Leighton Road, Pennington Street and eastbound Yee Wo Street;
– Traffic along eastbound Yee Wo Street cannot turn left to Sugar Street;
– Traffic along Great George Street heading for southbound Gloucester Road will be diverted via southbound Tai Hang Road floyover; and
– Traffic along southbound Victoria Park Road flyover will be diverted via Gloucester Road service road. Access to southbound Tai Hang Road flyover is allowed after 10.45am.

Phase VIII (from 3.45am to about 9am)

Road closure

– Hing Fat Street between Causeway Road and Victoria Park Road;
– Electric Road between Yacht Street and Park Towers;
– Lau Li Street between Hing Fat Street and Electric Road; and
– Tsing Fung Street between Hing Fat Street and Electric Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along eastbound Causeway Road heading for Hing Fat Street will be diverted via eastbound King’s Road;
– Traffic along westbound King’s Road heading for Hing Fat Street will be diverted via westbound Causeway Road;
– Traffic along southbound Electric Road must turn left to Yacht Street (except for access to Park Towers);
– Traffic leaving the Park Towers car park will be diverted via Electric Road and Yacht Street;
– Traffic on Electric Road heading for Tsing Fung Street will be diverted via Yacht Street; and
– Traffic along southbound Hing Fat Street must turn left to eastbound Gordon Road.

Phase IX (from 4am to about 10.45am)

Road closure

– Part of the traffic lanes of westbound Victoria Park Road between the down ramp of westbound IEC and westbound Gloucester Road, except the slow lane leading to Gloucester Road service road and the second slow lane leading to westbound Gloucester Road; and
– The flyover leading from northbound Gloucester Road to westbound Gloucester Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along Tsing Fung Street flyover will be diverted via the remaining lanes of westbound Victoria Park Road; and
– Traffic along northbound Gloucester Road flyover heading for westbound Gloucester Road will be diverted via Gloucester Road service road.

B. Pedestrian precincts

     The commencement time of the following pedestrian precincts will be postponed to 3pm on February 9, or when the major roads on Hong Kong Island are reopened:

– Pedestrian precinct at Lockhart Road between Cannon Street and East Point Road;
– East Point Road pedestrian precinct; and
– Pedestrian precinct at Great George Street between East Point Road and Paterson Street.

C. Suspension of parking spaces

– 29 parking spaces in Hing Fat Street public car park (metered parking spaces No. 1619 to 1629 and 1641 to 1644) will be suspended from 3pm to 10pm on February 8;
– All parking spaces in Hing Fat Street public car park will be suspended from 10pm on February 8 to 3pm of the following day, except for disabled parking spaces; and
– The parking spaces at the following locations will be suspended from 00.01am to 3pm on February 9:
    – Pick-up/drop-off areas at Expo Drive East;
    – Coach parking spaces at Expo Drive;
    – Disabled parking spaces at Jaffe Road between Percival Street and Cannon Street;
    – Motorcycle parking spaces at Marsh Road between Lockhart Road and Hennessy Road;
    – Disabled parking spaces at Gloucester Road near Sugar;
    – Rumsey Street near Rumsey Street Multi-Storey Car Park;
    – Westbound Yiu Sing Street between Lung Wo Road and Man Yiu Street;
    – Goods vehicles parking spaces at westbound Man Kwong Street near Central Ferry Pier No. 3;
    – Goods vehicles parking spaces at westbound Man Kwong Street near Central Ferry Pier No. 8;
    – Disabled parking spaces outside Central Ferry Pier No. 4 and Central Ferry Pier No. 5;
    – Motorcycle parking spaces outside Central Ferry Pier No. 6 and Central Ferry Pier No. 7; and
    – Wan Shing Street opposite to Wanchai Station Building.

Kowloon
——-

A. Road closure and traffic diversions

       The following will be implemented by phases on February 9, until the roads are safe for reopening, except for vehicles with permit:

Phase I (from 00.45am to about 1.15pm)

Road closure

– Southbound West Kowloon Highway between Mei Ching Road Roundabout and Western Harbour Crossing;
– The slip road leading from northbound Lin Cheung Road near Civil Aid Service Headquarters to southbound West Kowloon Highway;
– The slip road leading from northbound Nga Cheung Road elevated road to southbound West Kowloon Highway;
– The slip road leading from westbound Jordan Road flyover to southbound Western Harbour Crossing;
– The slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road near Yau Ma Tei Interchange to southbound West Kowloon Highway; and
– The slow lane of northbound Lin Cheung Road lowest level underpass between Austin Road West underpass and exit of Lin Cheung Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along northbound Lin Cheung Road cannot turn to the slip road leading from northbound Lin Cheung Road near Civil Aid Service Headquarters to southbound West Kowloon Highway;
– Traffic along southbound Lin Cheung Road will be diverted to the slip road heading to Tsim Sha Tsui; and
– Traffic along eastbound Mei Ching Road cannot turn to the slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road to southbound West Kowloon Highway.

Phase II (from 1am to about 9am)

Road closure

– Eastbound Salisbury Road between Star Ferry Pier and Canton Road; and
– Westbound Salisbury Road between Star Ferry Pier and Kowloon Park Drive.

Traffic diversions

     Traffic along westbound Salisbury Road will be diverted via northbound Kowloon Park Drive.

Phase III (from 1.40am to about 10am)

Road closure

– Northbound Nathan Road between Austin Road and Salisbury Road;
– Southbound Nathan Road between Kimberley Road and Middle Road;
– Westbound Kimberley Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road;
– Westbound Granville Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road;
– Eastbound Cameron Road between Nathan Road and Cameron Lane;
– Humphreys Avenue;
– Westbound Carnarvon Road between Nathan Road and Bristol Avenue;
– Mody Road between Nathan Road and Bristol Avenue;
– Haiphong Road between Lock Road and Nathan Road;
– Peking Road between Lock Road and Nathan Road;
– Middle Road between Hankow Road and Nathan Road; and
– Westbound Salisbury Road Underpass.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along southbound Nathan Road will be diverted to eastbound Kimberley Road;
– Traffic along Salisbury Road cannot turn to northbound Nathan Road;
– Traffic along northbound Carnarvon Road cannot turn left to westbound Granville Road and westbound Kimberley Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Haiphong Road will be diverted to southbound Lock Road; and
– Traffic along westbound Salisbury Road cannot enter westbound Salisbury Road Underpass near Chatham Road South.

Phase IV (from 2.30am to about 10.45am)

Road closure

– The slip road leading from eastbound Lai Po Road to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– The slip road leading from westbound Tsing Sha Highway to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– Southbound Lin Cheung Road between Lai Po Road and Hoi Fai Road;
– Southbound Lin Cheung Road between Tonkin Street West and Yau Ma Tei Interchange; and
– Westbound Yen Chow Street West between Sham Mong Road and Lin Cheung Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along eastbound Lai Po Road cannot turn left to the slip road heading to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– Traffic along westbound Tsing Sha Highway will be diverted to the slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road heading to Cheung Sha Wan;
– Traffic along eastbound Tonkin Street West cannot turn right to southbound Lin Cheung Road heading to Yau Ma Tei;
– Traffic along southbound Lin Cheung Road will be diverted to the slip road leading from southbound Lin Cheung Road to Sham Shui Po (near Tonkin Street West);
– Traffic along westbound Tonkin Street West cannot turn left to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– Traffic along northbound Sham Mong Road cannot turn left to westbound Yen Chow Street West;
– Traffic along southbound Sham Mong Road cannot turn right to westbound Yen Chow Street West; and
– Traffic along westbound Yen Chow Street West cannot turn to the slip road leading to southbound Lin Cheung Road.

Phase V (from 3.30am to about 10.30am)

Road closure

– Westbound Argyle Street between Nathan Road and Tong Mi Road, except the following lanes:
     – The first lane of westbound Argyle Street between Portland Street and Shanghai Street;
     – The first lane of westbound Argyle Street between Reclamation Street and Tong Mi Road; and
     – The fifth lane of westbound Argyle Street between Shanghai Street and Reclamation Street.
– Westbound Cherry Street between Tong Mi Road and Lin Cheung Road, except the following lanes:
     – The first lane of westbound Cherry Street between Tong Mi Road and Hoi Wang Road; and
     – The third and fourth lanes of westbound Cherry Street between Hoi Wang Road and Cherry Street Underpass.
– Southbound Lin Cheung Road between Hoi Fai Road Roundabout and southbound West Kowloon Highway;
– Southbound Hong Lok Street between Argyle Street and Fife Street; and
– Northbound Hoi Wang Road between Hoi Ting Road and Cherry Street.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along westbound Argyle Street must turn to southbound or northbound Nathan Road;
– Traffic along the first lane of westbound Argyle Street must turn left to southbound Shanghai Street;
– Traffic along southbound Shanghai Street must turn right to the fifth lane of westbound Argyle Street;
– Traffic along the first lane of westbound Argyle Street must turn left to southbound Tong Mi Road;
– Traffic along southbound Tong Mi Road must turn left to eastbound Argyle Street;
– Traffic along northbound Reclamation Street must turn left to the first lane of westbound Argyle Street;
– Traffic along northbound Tong Mi Road must turn left to westbound Cherry Street;
– Traffic along westbound Cherry Street must turn left to southbound Hoi Wang Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Hoi Ting Road cannot turn left to northbound Hoi Wang Road;
– Traffic along westbound Hoi Ting Road cannot turn right to northbound Hoi Wang Road;
– Traffic along northbound Hoi Wang Road must turn left to westbound Hoi Ting Road;
– Traffic along southbound Tai Kok Tsui Road cannot go straight to southbound Hoi Wang Road;
– Traffic along westbound Cherry Street cannot turn to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– Traffic along westbound Hoi Fai Road cannot turn left to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– Traffic along Hoi Fai Road Roundabout cannot turn to southbound Lin Cheung Road;
– Traffic along southbound Hong Lok Street must turn right to westbound Fife Street;
– Traffic along southbound Tong Mi Road must turn left to eastbound Bute Street;
– Traffic along eastbound Anchor Street must go straight to eastbound Mong Kok Road; and
– Traffic along southbound Oak Street must turn left to eastbound Anchor Street.

Phase VI (from 3.45am to about 9.15am)

Road closure

– The fast lane of northbound Kowloon Park Drive between Peking Road and Middle Road;
– Ashley Road;
– Hankow Road;
– Lock Road;
– Haiphong Road between Canton Road and Lock Road;
– Ichang Street;
– Peking Road between Kowloon Park Drive and Lock Road;
– Middle Road between Kowloon Park Drive and Hankow Road;
– Southbound Nathan Road between Salisbury Road and Middle Road; and
– Middle Road between Nathan Road and Salisbury Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along southbound Canton Road cannot turn left to eastbound Haiphong Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Salisbury Road cannot turn left to northbound Hankow Road and northbound Middle Road; and
– Traffic along northbound Kowloon Park Drive cannot turn right to eastbound Peking Road.

Phase VII (from 4.15am to about 10am)

Road closure

– Southbound Nathan Road between Gascoigne Road and Kimberley Road;
– Northbound Nathan Road between Austin Road and Argyle Street;
– Eastbound Kimberley Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road;
– Eastbound Austin Road between Pilkem Street and Cox’s Road;
– Westbound Austin Road between Cox’s Road and Nathan Road;
– Hillwood Road;
– Pine Tree Hill Road;
– Tak Shing Street between Nathan Road and Tak Hing Street;
– Tak Hing Street;
– Bowring Street between Pilkem Street and Nathan Road;
– Westbound Jordan Road between Cox’s Road and Pilkem Street;
– Eastbound Jordan Road between Parkes Street and Chi Wo Street;
– Chi Wo Street between Gascoigne Road and Nanking Street;
– Ning Po Street between Parkes Street and Chi Wo Street;
– Mau Lam Street;
– Eastbound Pak Hoi Street between Woosung Street and Nathan Road;
– Westbound Pak Hoi Street between Chi Wo Street and Nathan Road;
– Kansu Street between Nathan Road and Temple Street;
– Westbound Gascoigne Road between Jordan Road and Nathan Road;
– Public Square Street between Nathan Road and Arthur Street;
– Wing Sing Lane between Arthur Street and Nathan Road;
– Man Ming Lane between Nathan Road and Arthur Street;
– Eastbound Waterloo Road between Portland Street and Nathan Road;
– Hamilton Street between Portland Street and Nathan Road;
– Dundas Street between Portland Street and Nathan Road; and
– Changsha Street between Portland Street and Nathan Road.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic along northbound Carnarvon Road must turn right to eastbound Kimberley Road;
– Traffic along westbound Austin Road must turn right to northbound Cox’s Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Austin Road must turn left to northbound Pilkem Street;
– Traffic along southbound Cox’s Road must turn left to eastbound Austin Road;
– Traffic along northbound Cox’s Road must turn right to eastbound Jordan Road;
– Traffic along northbound Pilkem Street cannot turn right to eastbound Bowring Street;
– Traffic along westbound Jordan Road must turn left to southbound Cox’s Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Jordan Road must turn left to northbound Parkes Street;
– Traffic along northbound Parkes Street cannot turn right to eastbound Ning Po Street;
– Traffic along eastbound Pak Hoi Street must turn right to southbound Woosung Street;
– Traffic along southbound Woosung Street cannot turn left to Pak Hoi Street;
– Traffic along westbound Gascoigne Road must turn left to southbound Cox’s Road;
– Traffic along southbound Queen Elizabeth Hospital Road cannot turn right to westbound Gascoigne Road;
– Traffic along southbound Nathan Road must turn left to eastbound Gascoigne Road;
– Arthur Street between Public Square Street and Wing Sing Lane will be re-routed one-way southbound;
– Traffic along Arthur Street must turn right to westbound Public Square Street;
– Traffic along southbound Arthur Street cannot turn left to eastbound Wing Sing Lane;
– Traffic along westbound Waterloo Road must turn left to southbound Nathan Road;
– Traffic along eastbound Waterloo Road must turn left to Portland Street;
– Traffic along eastbound Hamilton Street must turn left to northbound Portland Street;
– Traffic along northbound Portland Street cannot turn right to eastbound Hamilton Street;
– Traffic along eastbound Dundas Street must turn left to northbound Portland Street;
– Traffic along northbound Portland Street cannot turn right to eastbound Dundas Street; and
– Traffic along northbound Portland Street cannot turn right to eastbound Changsha Street.

B. Suspension of on-street parking spaces

– The on-street parking spaces at Kimberley Road between Carnarvon Road and Observatory Road will be suspended from 00.01am to 10am on February 9; and
– The on-street parking spaces at Arthur Street between Wing Sing Lane and Public Square Street will be suspended from 00.01am to 10am on February 9.

C. Temporary closure of Western Harbour Crossing (Hong Kong bound tube)

     The Hong Kong bound tube of the Western Harbour Crossing will be closed from 00.45am to about 1.15pm on February 9, or until the reopening of all connecting roads after the marathon. The Kowloon bound tube will maintain open to normal traffic.

New Territories
—————

    The following will be implemented by phases between February 8 and 9, until the roads are safe for reopening, except for vehicles with permit:

Phase I (from 11.30pm on February 8 to 1.15pm of the following day)

     The slip road leading from Tuen Mun Road to southbound Ting Kau Bridge will be closed.

Phase II (from 11.45pm on February 8 to 1.15pm of the following day)

Road closure

– Southbound carriageways of Tsing Kwai Highway, Cheung Tsing Tunnel, Cheung Tsing Highway and Ting Kau Bridge;
– All exits from Lantau Link to southbound Cheung Tsing Highway;
– The slip road leading from Tsing Yi South Bridge, Kwai Chung Road and Tsuen Wan Road to southbound Tsing Kwai Highway;
– Eastbound carriageways of Tsing Sha Highway between the access road of Cheung Tsing Tunnel and West Kowloon Highway, Stonecutters Bridge and Nam Wan Tunnel;
– The slip road leading from Tsing Yi Hong Wan Road to eastbound Stonecutters Bridge;
– The slip road leading from Container Port Road South to eastbound Tsing Sha Highway (Ngong Shuen Chau Viaduct);
– The slip road from Mei Ching Road leading to southbound West Kowloon Highway, except for vehicles leaving Container Port via Roundabout 6 to Mei Ching Road and Tsing Kwai Highway (New Territories bound);
– The North West Tsing Yi Interchange U-turn slip road leading from eastbound Tsing Yi North Coastal Road to westbound Tsing Yi North Coastal Road; and
– The slip road leading from southbound Cheung Tsing Highway to Tsing Yi Road West.

Traffic diversions

– Traffic from Lantau to Kowloon will be diverted via North West Tsing Yi Interchange, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road;
– Traffic from Ma Wan to Kowloon will be diverted via North West Tsing Yi Interchange, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road;
– Traffic from Tuen Mun Road and Tai Lam Tunnel intending to use Ting Kau Bridge to go to the Airport, Lantau and Ma Wan will be diverted via Tuen Mun Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Tsuen Tsing Interchange, Tsing Tsuen Road, Tsing Yi North Coastal Road and the slip road leading to Lantau Link before reaching Lantau Link (airport bound);
– Traffic from Tuen Mun Road and Tai Lam Tunnel intending to use Ting Kau Bridge to go to Kowloon will be diverted via Tuen Mun Road, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road;
– Traffic from Tsing Yi South intending to use Tsing Sha Highway to go to Kowloon will be diverted via Tsing Yi Road, Kwai Tsing Road, Kwai Tsing Interchange, Tsuen Wan Road, Kwai Chung Road, Cheung Sha Wan Road and Lai Chi Kok Road; and
– Traffic from Kwai Chung Container Port intending to use Tsing Sha Highway to go to Kowloon will be diverted via Container Port Road South, Hing Wah Street West and Lai Po Road.

     The above measures will not affect traffic from Kowloon or New Territories East via Route 3 or Route 8 to destinations including the Airport, Lantau, Ma Wan and New Territories West.

     All vehicles parked illegally during the implementation of the above special traffic arrangements will be towed away without prior warning, and may be subject to multiple ticketing.

     Depending on the actual traffic and crowd conditions, appropriate traffic arrangements and crowd safety management measures will be implemented. Members of the public are advised to use public transport to visit the above areas and exercise tolerance and patience, and to take heed of instructions of the Police on site.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: Compliance of End-of-Life Vehicles Rules, 2025
Source: Government of India

Posted On: 03 FEB 2025 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) notified the Environment Protection (End-of-Life Vehicles) Rules, 2025 vide S.O. 98(E) dated 06^th January, 2025 for environmentally sound management of end-of-life vehicles. The rules are based on the principle of extended producer responsibility (EPR) where producers of vehicles are given mandatory EPR targets for scrapping of end-of-life vehicles. The rules cover all types of transport and non-transport vehicles, except agricultural tractor, agricultural trailer, combine harvester and power tiller.

Under the said rules, producers have been mandated to fulfil the obligation of Extended Producer Responsibility for the vehicles that the producer has introduced or introduces in the domestic market, including vehicles put to self-use to ensure the specified scrapping targets. Producers have been provided annual targets for scrapping of End-of-life vehicles starting from the year 2025-26 for the vehicles put in the market 15 years ago in case of transport vehicles and 20 years ago in case of non-transport vehicles.

Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) have been mandated to receive unfit vehicles or End-of-Life vehicles for scrapping and must carry out treatment, depolluting, dismantling, segregation and scrapping activities. They are required to send all the recovered and segregated materials from End-of-Life vehicles to the registered recyclers or refurbishers, co-processors for recycling and reuse of components or materials, in case RVSF does have recycling or refurbishing facility. They are further required to send all non-recyclable or non-refurbishable materials and non-utilizable hazardous materials to Common Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility authorised under Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.

Designated Collection Centres by producers are required to handle the End-of-Life Vehicles in an environmentally sound manner and send them to Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility. Registered owner of the vehicle or bulk consumer is required to deposit the End-of-Life vehicle at any of the producer’s designated sales outlet or designated Collection Centre or Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility within a period of one hundred and eighty days from the date the vehicle becomes the End-of-Life vehicle.

Under the rules, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in case of producer and State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) in case of RVSF and bulk consumer may, after giving an opportunity of being heard, suspend or cancel their registration, in case of violation or non-compliance of any provisions of these rules. Returns in respect of obligations provided under the rules are required to be filed by producer, bulk consumer and RVSF on centralised online portal.

CPCB has been mandated to undertake periodic inspection and audit of the producer to ensure that such facility is complying with the requirement under the provisions of these rules. CPCB may undertake or cause to be undertaken by an authorised agency the periodic inspection and audit of the Registered Vehicle Scrapping facility. CPCB may take necessary actions against violations or for non-fulfilment of obligations under these rules against a producer or Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility or any other person.

Similarly, SPCB has been mandated to undertake periodic inspection and audit, or cause to be inspected by an authorised agency, of the RVSF to ensure compliance of the rules. SPCB is required to undertake periodic inspection and audit, or cause to be inspected by an authorised agency, of the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility to ensure the compliance of these rules and may take necessary actions against violations or for non-fulfilment of obligations under these rules against a Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility or bulk consumer or any other person.

In case, producer or Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility or bulk consumer fails to comply with the provisions relating to handling and scrapping of End-of-Life vehicles in environmentally sound manner under these rules, are liable to pay environmental compensation for causing loss, damage or injury to environment or public health.

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has formulated the Vehicle Scrapping Policy for creation of an ecosystem to phase out older unfit and polluting vehicles. The policy targets scrapping of unfit and polluting vehicles strictly based on their fitness. Under this policy, a network of Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) is envisaged across the country. As on January 2025, 84 RVSFs are operational in the country.

MoRTH notified the Motor Vehicles (Registration and Functions of Vehicle Scrapping Facility) Rules, 2021 prescribe for registration of Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF), criteria for scrapping vehicles, scrapping procedure, audit and certifications for functioning of RVSFs. In addition, RVSF is required to comply with the guidelines ‘Environmentally Sound Management of End-of-Life Vehicles’ issued by CPCB.

MoRTH notified the Central Motor Vehicles (Twenty Third Amendment) Rules, 2021 vide GSR 714 (E) dated 04.10.2021, which provide that if a buyer of a new vehicle submits ‘Certificate of Deposit’ of an end-of-life vehicle then the Registration fee on the new vehicle will not be levied. Further, MoRTH under the Central Motor Vehicles (Twenty fourth Amendment) Rules, 2021 vide GSR 720 (E) dated 05.10.2021 provides for concession in the motor vehicle tax upto twenty five percent in case of non-transport vehicles and fifteen percent in case of transport vehicles.

In addition, MoRTH has issued the following notifications or advisories to promote adoption of Electric Vehicles and eco-friendly alternatives:
1. Vide S.O. 5333 (E) dated 18.10.2018, granted the exemption to the Battery-Operated Transport Vehicles and Transport Vehicles running on Ethanol and Methanol fuels from the requirements of permit.
2. Vide GSR 525 (E) dated 2.8.2021 exempted the Battery-Operated Vehicles from the payment of fees for the purpose of issue or renewal of registration certificate and assignment of new registration mark.
3. Vide GSR 302 (E) dated 18.4.2023 to issue All India Tourist permit for Battery Operated Vehicles without payment of any permit fee.
4. Vide GSR 749 (E) dated 7.8.2018 to issue registration mark for the Battery-Operated Vehicles to be in Yellow colour on Green background for the transport vehicles and for all other cases, in White in colour on Green background.
Further, Ministry of Heavy Industries launched ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ on 29^th September, 2024 for promotion of electric mobility in the country with and outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over a period of two years. The scheme provides subsidies or demand incentives worth Rs.3,679 crore to e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other emerging EVs. It will support 24.79 lakh e-2Ws, 3.16 lakh e-3Ws, and 14,028 e-buses.

This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

*****

VM

(Lok Sabha US Q3)

(Release ID: 2099130) Visitor Counter : 43

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Urges Trump to Halt Planned Tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Citing Likelihood of Increasing Energy and Food Prices for Families in the Middle of Winter

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), are sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him not to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canada, the Granite State’s largest trading partner, and Mexico. Sweeping tariffs would dramatically increase costs for families in New Hampshire and around the nation. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, and these tariffs are estimated to drive up energy prices for families in the middle of winter. It would also increase costs for essential items like groceries, housing, cars and more. Click here to read the full letter.

In part, the delegation wrote: “During your campaign, you promised to ‘bring down the price of everything.’ Despite that promise, sweeping tariffs would be a tax on Americans that raises the cost of everything from cars and gas to housing and groceries. Tariff costs would be passed on to our consumers and businesses through higher costs for goods and services.”

They continued: “For the more than 350,000 households in New Hampshire who rely on heating oil, propane and wood to keep their homes warm and comfortable, adding these costs would be particularly cruel in the middle of a winter that has seen recent temperatures reach 20 below zero. Home heating oil is New Hampshire’s largest import from Canada, not because we don’t produce enough in the United States, but because it makes logistical and economic sense. The National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI), which represents wholesale and retail liquid heating fuel distributors throughout the Northeast, estimates that tariffs could increase heating costs by at least $375 per winter for a home in New Hampshire.”

They concluded: “These taxes would raise families’ grocery bills, too. The type of broad tariffs you’ve proposed could raise food costs by $200 per year for the average household. That’s because the U.S. imports 38 percent of our fresh vegetables, 60 percent of our fresh fruit, and more than 99 percent of our coffee. This is the last thing families need when they’re already struggling with record high prices for eggs or coffee […] We urge you to focus on bringing down prices and reconsider the wisdom of placing sweeping tariffs on imports that would raise prices for our constituents.”

Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools.

After the November election, a multitude of business leaders verified that, if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of a Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Potential retroactive ban on diesel-powered passenger vehicles – E-001642/2024(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
While the Commission cannot comment on ongoing cases[1] before the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) nor prejudge the outcome of the Court’s pending proceeding, the Commission will continue to promote solutions that favour clean and healthy air as well as promote a predictable and implementable legal framework.

Irrespective of the outcome of the CJEU judgment, the Commission will ensure with the Member States a proper follow up. In accordance with Article 11 of Regulation (EU) 2018/858[2], the Forum for Exchange of Information on Enforcement (composed of representatives from Member States type-approval and market surveillance authorities) provides for coordination of activities and exchange of best practices towards a uniform implementation of the applicable legislation across the EU.

The spirit and letter of EU emissions legislation are well known. It was clarified in the CJEU judgment in Case C-128/20[3] that the vehicles’ emission behaviour must comply with the standardised New European Driving Cycle test conditions[4], as well as with Annex I of Regulation (EC) No 715/2007[5] and with implementing measures, as agreed by the co-legislators, the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament.

[1] C-251/23 and C-308/23, Mercedes-Benz Group.

[2] OJ L 151, 14.6.2018, p. 1-218.

[3] Judgment of 14 July 2022, GSMB Invest, C-128/20, EU:C:2022:570, paragraph 40.

[4] Commission Regulation (EC) No 692/2008 implementing and amending Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, OJ L 199, 28.7.2008, p. 1-136.

[5] OJ L 171, 29.6.2007, p. 1-16.
Last updated: 3 February 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: New Yorkers Will Feel The Freeze: Gillibrand, AG James Sound The Alarm On Disastrous Ramifications Of What A Trump Administration Federal Funding Freeze Could Mean For New Yorkers’ Safety And Economic Well-Being
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and New York State Attorney General Tish James sounded the alarm on the disastrous ramifications of President Trump’s ongoing attempts to freeze grants and loans disbursed by the federal government. A federal funding freeze would severely harm New Yorkers, from aid to seniors to funds to address food insecurity and homelessness to critical money for law enforcement.

“The chaos, uncertainty, and disorder fueled by the Trump administration is wreaking economic havoc on families and communities across New York,” said Senator Gillibrand. “A government funding freeze would put both the public safety and well-being of New Yorkers at risk. The Trump administration seems intent on harming New York families. While so much remains in question from this past week, it is imperative that everyone know what is at stake for our city, state, and nation.”

“The public servants who go to work every day to care for New Yorkers and keep them safe rely on federal funds to do their jobs,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “This administration is putting New Yorkers in danger by pushing massive cuts to resources that support our most vulnerable communities and public safety efforts statewide. I am leading a coalition of attorneys general to end this destructive policy, and I thank Senator Gillibrand for her partnership as we fight to protect these funds that keep our communities safe.”

“From our non-profits to our public schools, Trump’s reckless funding freeze would have devastating consequences for New Yorkers, particularly with regard to low-income students and the innumerable programs and services they rely upon,” said New York State Senator John Liu. “It’s politics at its worst that puts partisanship before the wellbeing of the most vulnerable among us who depend on federal aid to access essential support services.”

“The ill-conceived White House budget freeze continues to cause great fear, uncertainly, and worry for tens of thousands of community-based nonprofit organizations nationwide — as well as for the tens of millions of the most vulnerable Americans whom we collectively serve,” said Joel Berg, CEO of the nonpartisan nonprofit organization Hunger Free America. “Any threats to nutrition assistance programs are especially counterproductive, undermining the Administration’s claim that it wants to improve public health.”

“The chaos and confusion caused by the Trump Administration’s freeze on contacts is having an immediate and harmful effect on older New Yorkers and family caregivers” said Allison Nickerson Executive Director of LiveOn NY. “Federal programs, like Meals on Wheels and housing assistance, provide life-sustaining support and relief to older adults who are already struggling to make ends meet. Older New Yorkers and citizens across the country expect their government to support them, not pull the rug out from under them. LiveOn NY is grateful Senator Gillibrand continues to fight for the fundamental services that New York’s older adults rely on every day.

While some federal programs are still accessible for the moment, others have been suspended, such as select United States Department of Justice grants. A federal funding freeze has the potential to block billions of dollars in federal grants for New York State. For example:

Federal Counter-Terrorism Funding
1. $290M was allotted to New York for State Fiscal Year 2025.
Senior Nutrition/Meals on Wheels
1. $66M was awarded to New York State-based entities in FY2024 for senior nutrition programs like Meals on Wheels.
2. These grants include HHS’ Older Americans Act Title III Part C Nutrition Services and HHS’ Nutrition Services Incentives Program.
Homeless Shelters
1. $368M was awarded to New York State-based entities in FY2024 to fund homeless shelters, including $227 million for entities in New York City.
2. These grants include programs HUD’s Continuum of Care Program and HUD’s Emergency Solutions Grant Program.
Food Banks
1. $15M was awarded to New York State-based entities in FY2024 for programs that distribute food to people in need, such as food banks.
2. The funding was awarded through USDA’s The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).
Disability Programs
1. $60B in Medicaid grant funding was awarded to New York State in FY2024.
2. On top of Medicaid, New York State-based entities were awarded $70 million in federal grants for programs, research, and services benefiting people with disabilities in FY2024.
3. This includes at least $9 million for entities in New York City.
FEMA Assistance to Firefighters
1. $13.6M in Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants was awarded to New York municipalities and fire departments in FY2024 to help recruit and train firefighters.
2. $17.8M in Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) was awarded to New York municipalities and fire departments in FY2024 to help purchase firefighting vehicles and equipment.
3. Since FY2023, the FDNY has been awarded over $2M in AFG funding.
FEMA Port Security Grant Program
1. $14.1M was awarded to New York State in FY2024.
2. This included $3.8M for the FDNY,$6.6M for the NYPD, and $880K for the Port Authority.
MIL OSI USA News –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Community libraries and advice services proposed to be integrated into new service following consultation.

Source: City of Birmingham

Published: Monday, 3rd February 2025

Following the end of consultation and pending cabinet approval, Birmingham City Council’s Community Libraries and Information services will be integrated to create a new Connected Communities service.

The integrated approach means community libraries will serve as both universal safe spaces promoting access to information, community wellbeing, digital inclusion, education and culture, and as community hubs supporting residents with localised activities and support on their doorstep.

The service will continue to include a 24-hour online service, a citywide book reservation service, self-service, Library Services at Home, and as well as a digital library offering.

As part of the service, individual community libraries will be open for a set number of days.

10 libraries will be open for a minimum of four days with 17 part time libraries open for a minimum of three days, of which four are planned co-located libraries. There are also plans for seven partner-led libraries. Alongside the library services, two mobile library vehicles will serve up to 50 citywide stops a week.

Advice services will work across libraries in the city, offering residents access to high quality information advice and guidance and connections to wider support services in their local community.

Councillor Saima Suleman, Cabinet Member for Digital, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to all stages of our community libraries consultation and this valuable feedback is helping us shape the future of the service.

“The proposed Connected Communities service will maintain library and advice services in safe spaces open to all.”

The full report can be found here:https://birmingham.cmis.uk.com/birmingham/Meetings/tabid/70/ctl/ViewMeetingPublic/mid/397/Meeting/14215/Committee/2/Default.aspx

Useful links

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Eastern DR Congo crisis increasing risk of mpox transmission, WHO chief warns

Source: United Nations 4

By Vibhu Mishra

3 February 2025 Peace and Security

The worsening security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has forced many mpox patients to flee treatment centres, increasing the risk of transmission, the UN health agency (WHO) warned on Monday.

Fighting escalated sharply in late January, as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized control of parts of North Kivu, including areas near the regional capital Goma, and advanced towards South Kivu.

Before the latest violence, mpox cases had been stabilizing, said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a speech to the agency’s executive board.

Health system overwhelmed

Healthcare facilities are struggling to cope with a surge in casualties, alongside patients suffering from multiple endemic diseases, including mpox, cholera, malaria and measles.

WHO reported that shells hit a hospital in Goma, resulting in civilian casualties, including infants and pregnant women. Stocks of essential medicines in Minova (South Kivu) are rapidly depleting, as M23 rebels advance towards the city.

The agency said health partners are doing “everything possible” to provide lifesaving services “despite the risks posed by heavy artillery and the proximity of frontline fighting.”

Concerns over attacks on civilians, sexual violence, and other human rights violations have also reached alarming levels.

IDPs at risk, again

Ongoing clashes also threatens hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people (IDPs) sheltering in Goma, along with the aid workers supporting them.

“Thousands of displaced people sheltering close to Goma have had to flee for safety as heavy bombing and shelling struck close to the camps due to the proximity of military installations,” the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reported.

Many displaced families are now staying with host communities, while others are setting up temporary shelters in schools and public buildings. Host communities themselves could face “significant humanitarian needs”.

WFP

An IDP camp in eastern DRC hosting tens of thousands of vulnerable families.

Infrastructure hit

The violence has severely damaged essential infrastructure, including water, electricity, and communication networks.

In Goma, water and electricity remain cut off and people are forced to rely on unsafe water, increasing risk of disease outbreaks. Telecommunications (phones) and Internet access is also disrupted.

Public and private property – including WFP and non-governmental organization-run warehouses – have been looted.

“Coupled with severed access to the city, food and other essential supplies are almost depleted,” WFP said, adding that scarcity has driven prices up, making it even harder for vulnerable communities to afford basic necessities.

Hard-won development gains at risk

In addition to threatening the safety and wellbeing of millions, the fighting has put years of hard-won development gains at risk.

Achim Steiner, Administrator of the UN Development Programme (UNDP) underscored that it is not just a humanitarian emergency but a development crisis jeopardizing progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Every day the conflict continues, access to education and healthcare is disrupted, businesses collapse, and vital infrastructure is damaged – deepening hardship for communities and eroding the foundation for long-term recovery, resilience and sustainable development,” he said in a statement on Sunday.

“I call on all actors to prioritize dialogue, uphold international humanitarian law, and pursue a peaceful resolution to this crisis,” he added.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH3 blocked south of Inglewood

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

State Highway 3/Mountain Road, Inglewood is blocked near the intersection with Dudley Road Lower following a crash.

The crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian was reported just after 8am.

Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Convicted of a Drive-By Shooting and Fentanyl Trafficking, Member of ‘21st and Vietnam’ Crew Sentenced to 161 Months

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

WASHINGTON –Briyon Shuford, 30, of Washington D.C., was sentenced today to 161 months in prison for his participation in a daylight drive-by shooting – while he served as a DC Violence Interrupter — that seriously injured four people. Shuford also was sentenced for his participation in a violent, armed group of drug dealers known as the “21st and Vietnam” crew. The crew distributed significant quantities of crack cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, PCP, and n-n-dimethylpentylone (“boot”) in the area of 21^st Street and Maryland Ave. NE.

The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Washington Division, Special Agent in Charge Troy Springer of the National Capital Region of the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

Shuford, aka “Breezy,” pleaded guilty on October 31, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and aggravated assault while armed. In addition to the 161-month prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered Shuford to serve five years of supervised release.

According to court documents, the 21^st and Vietnam crew used an apartment building on the 1900 block of I Street, NE, as a base of operations. The crew ran an open-air drug market around the building and sold narcotics outside on apartment grounds as well as on the first-floor hallway of the building. The sales of crack cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, PCP, and n-n-dimethylpentylone (“boot”) occurred on a near daily basis between at least June 2023 through May 2024 when the crew members were arrested.

On the morning of April 19, 2024, Shuford arrived at the apartment building to meet co-defendant Trevon Palmer. The pair departed in Shuford’s own vehicle and then exchanged it for a stolen Infiniti sedan. Shuford drove the stolen Infiniti to the 1200 block of Mt. Olivet Road NE, Washington, D.C. The men – both armed with firearms –hunted for members of a rival crew. After finding what they believed to be appropriate targets, both Shuford and Palmer opened fire from the vehicle, shooting indiscriminately into the parking lot of the Circle 7 Food and Grocery Mart without regard for innocent bystanders or passing cars. Shuford almost lost control of the vehicle as he opened fire. Shuford and Palmer’s shots injured four individuals.

Shuford was an equal participant in the 21^st and Vietnam crew’s drug activities. He drove co-defendant Damien Jenkins to make a sizable drug sale during which Jenkins sold more than 80 grams of fentanyl. During that sale, Shuford remained nearby in his car, conducting another narcotics sale.

On May 15, 2024, law enforcement arrested Shuford and searched his residence. Law enforcement officers recovered distribution quantities of suspected marijuana, packaging supplies, a Glock 30 firearm, and $12,637 in cash.

This case was investigated by the DEA Washington Division Office, the FBI Washington Field Office, and the MPD. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrea Duvall and Solomon Eppel.

Briyon Shuford uploaded photos to the internet in 2023 of himself carrying firearms.

24cr226

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Naples Man Sentenced To 9 Years In Federal Prison For Trafficking Fentanyl And Methamphetamine

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Fort Myers, Florida – United States District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Jadyn Howard Loman (22, Naples) to 9 years in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Loman entered a guilty plea on October 30, 2024.

According to court documents, deputies from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Loman after he failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of 20^th Place Southwest and 41^st Street Southwest in Naples. A subsequent chase ensued with Loman driving in excess of 100 miles per hour – eventually crashing his vehicle. Loman then fled the crash scene on foot before being apprehended. Inside his vehicle, deputies located 2 handguns, ammunition, and various baggies containing fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick L. Darcey.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: $15.8M to Help Dairy Farmers Protect Water Quality
Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 22 farms have been awarded over $15.8 million in funding through the first round of the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) Enhanced Nutrient and Methane Management Program (CAFO ENMP). Funding from the program will go toward projects that help farmers protect water quality and mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Funding for this program was announced as part of the Governor’s 2024 State of the State and builds on the commitment that Governor Hochul has made to support dairy farm modernization and sustainability.

“The dairy industry is a cornerstone of New York’s economy, thanks to the dedication of dairy farmers and manufacturers across the state whose work has made this commodity New York’s largest agricultural sector,” Governor Hochul said. “I am proud to help our farmers reduce their carbon footprint while continuing to put world-class products on the tables of New Yorkers for generations to come.”

Through the first round of funding, the program will help CAFO-permitted farmers implement projects that enhance manure management systems that sequester carbon and conserve manure nutrients applied to fields and soil to protect water quality. The program also supports advancements in precision feed management to balance nutrients and reduce methane emissions. The estimated Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reduction for all projects is 122,833 MTCO2e a year, the equivalent of taking 28,651 gas powered vehicles off the road for one year.

A total of 22 projects have been awarded through the State’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts via two funding tracks. Seventeen projects were awarded in Track A, which will go toward Nutrient and GHG Management Best Management Practices Systems. Five projects were awarded in Track B, which will go toward Manure Storage Cover and Flare Projects and associated practices. The awards are as follows:

Capital Region
- $11,414.38 awarded to the Saratoga County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Hudson-Hoosic Watershed.
Central New York
- $1,025,759.00 awarded to the Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with two farms in the Chenango Watershed.
- $293,850.00 awarded to the Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Oneida Lake Watershed.
Finger Lakes
- $3,192,578.00 awarded to the Ontario County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Seneca Watershed.
- $2,167,334.00 awarded to the Ontario County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Chemung Watershed.
- $1,248,588.05 awarded to the Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with three farms in the Upper Genesee Watershed.
- $608,987.20 awarded to the Wyoming County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Lower Genesee Watershed.
- $246,900.00 awarded to the Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Oak Orchard – Twelve Mile Creek Watershed.
Mohawk Valley
- $942,162.50 awarded to the Montgomery County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk Watershed.
- $741,861.35 awarded to Herkimer County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk Watershed.
- $98,483.68 awarded to the Oneida County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Mohawk Watershed.
- $54,611.89 awarded to Oneida County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Oneida Lake Watershed.
North Country
- $810,571.00 awarded to the Clinton County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Lake Champlain Watershed.
- $526,926.21 awarded to the Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the St. Lawrence Watershed.
- $457,056.00 awarded to the St. Lawrence County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the St. Lawrence Watershed.
Western New York
- $1,909,650.00 awarded to the Cattaraugus County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Cattaraugus Watershed.
- $1,470,815.00 awarded to the Chautauqua County Soil and Water Conservation District to work with one farm in the Chautauqua-Conneaut Watershed.
Full project descriptions are available here.

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball said, “New York State is home to some of the most passionate dairy farmers who are not only producing and processing some of the very best dairy products in the world, but also working hard to leave the industry better for future generations. This funding is a true testament to the value of helping our farmers transition to climate-safe practices that preserve our natural resources while continuing to protect their businesses and nourish our communities. I want to thank our Soil and Water Districts and our farmers for the work they’re doing, and I look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition.”

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “DEC applauds Governor Hochul’s continued investments to bolster the sustainability of New York’s agricultural industry and provide resources to farmers who serve as crucial partners in the conservation of land and other natural resources. DEC’s requirements play an important role in protecting water quality and this funding will help ensure best management practices are in place and nutrient management plans implemented on livestock farms.”

New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee Chair Matt Brower said, “The requirements for the CAFO General Permit can result in significant financial and management challenges for farm operations in New York. Having these funds available to farmers is important to help them meet those challenges, while also improving water quality and addressing climate change concerns. We are fortunate to have such a great partnership between the farmers and the local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, which makes the planning and implementation of the projects possible. The State Soil and Water Conservation Committee greatly appreciates the efforts of the Districts.”

Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “New York dairy is a pillar of our state’s economy, as our largest agricultural sector and a critical job creator in rural communities and beyond. Clean air, water, and healthy soil are fundamental to thriving farm businesses and, therefore, a reliable food supply. Our state has a major stake in providing direct financial support to dairy farmers who are pioneering climate-forward practices that protect our environment and reduce emissions. The CAFO Enhanced Nutrient and Methane Management Program we established last year is helping make that happen and we congratulate the farmers across New York State whose projects have received funding in this first round.”

Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “As a major producer of safe and nutritious food, the dairy industry is a critical part of New York’s agricultural economy. I’m glad to see 22 farms benefit from funding that will help them reduce their carbon footprint and assist with milk storage technologies. For both our climate and our food supply, it’s important that we continue to support our dairy producers through initiatives like these.”

New York Farm Bureau President David Fisher said, “As the fifth-largest dairy producer in the United States, New York is a powerhouse in the industry, ranking number one in cottage cheese, sour cream and yogurt production. And, as stewards of the land, dairy farmers have a vested interest in protecting soil and water quality, reducing their carbon footprint and implementing modern technology to preserve farming for future generations. By awarding CAFO ENMP funding to soil and water conservation districts across the state, Gov. Hochul is sending a strong message that dairy farmers are trusted partners in sustainability and environmental health.”

Under the Governor’s leadership, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget included additional funding to help boost the dairy industry, including $34 million in capital funding over two years to expand on-farm milk storage capacity, improve efficiencies, invest in milk transfer systems, cooling technologies, and other projects to further opportunities for dairy farmers to transport or store their products.

The FY 2025 Budget also included a nearly $82 investment in agricultural stewardship programs and initiatives, such as the Climate Resilient Farming grant program, that are helping farms to implement environmentally sustainable practices and combat climate change. In her 2025 State of the State Address, Governor Hochul proposed additional funding to research and implement climate-resilient practices on dairy farms.

About the Dairy Industry in New York State

New York State is home to nearly 3,000 dairy producers that produce 16.1 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the nation’s fifth largest dairy state. With dairy farming accounting for half of the state’s agricultural economy, New York’s unique and talented dairy producers and processors provide significant contributions to New York’s agriculture industry, the economy, and to the health of our communities.

MIL OSI USA News –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Dartmouth — Nova Scotia RCMP release provincial stunting statistics for October to December 2024
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

As Nova Scotia’s Provincial Police, road safety is a top priority. In an effort to keep citizens informed about enforcement on our roadways, the RCMP is releasing statistics on stunting charges for the months of October to December 2024.

During this three-month period, Nova Scotia RCMP charged 55 drivers with stunting on a number of highways across the province. This includes 25 in October, 12 in November, and 18 in December. The following are examples of these offences:
- 182 Km/h in a 100 Km/h zone on Hwy. 105 in South Haven
- 197 Km/h while driving in Yarmouth (the newly licensed driver was drinking alcohol behind the wheel)
- 166 Km/h in a 100 Km/h zone on Hwy. 125 in Point Edward (newly licensed driver)
Anyone driving a motor vehicle 50 Km/hr or more over the speed limit may be charged with stunting.

The fine for stunting in Nova Scotia is $2,422.50 for a first offence, six points on your licence and an immediate seven-day roadside licence suspension.

Speed is one of the major causes of serious injury and fatal collisions on our roads. Road safety is a priority for the RCMP and drivers are reminded to make it their priority as well. If you see someone driving unsafely on our roads, please report it by calling the RCMP at 1-800-803-RCMP (7267). If you believe it’s an emergency, call 911.

MIL Security OSI –
February 4, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Should Australia mandate cancer warnings for alcoholic drinks?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Visontay, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Alcohol and Long-term Health, University of Sydney

Hryshchyshen Serhii/Shutterstock

Alcohol causes huge harm in Australia, responsible for 5,800 new cancer cases per year. Yet many of us remain in the dark about its health risks.

In January, the United States’ Office of the Surgeon General, the country’s leading public health spokesperson, recommended warnings about alcohol’s cancer risks should be displayed on drink packaging.

These messages have already been made obligatory in Ireland and South Korea.

So, do they work? And should we mandate them here?

Isn’t a glass of wine or two good for me?

Most of us know heavy drinking is unhealthy.

Yet the belief a few glasses of wine helps protect against heart disease and other conditions has persisted. That is despite evidence in recent years showing the benefits have been overestimated and the harms underplayed.

In fact, any level of alcohol use increases the risk for several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (affecting the large intestine and rectum) and breast cancer.

In recent years, the evidence has strengthened showing alcohol plays a clear, causal role increasing cancer risk and other serious health problems, as well as all-cause mortality.

One study estimated how many new cancer cases will develop across the lifetimes of the 18.8 million Australian adults who were alive in 2016. It predicted a quarter of a million (249,700) new cancers – mostly colorectal – will arise due to alcohol.

We know what causes this harm. For example, acetaldehyde – a chemical produced by the body when it processes alcohol – is carcinogenic.

Alcohol also increases cancer risk through “oxidative stress”, an imbalance in the body’s antioxidants and free radicals which causes damage to DNA and inflammation.

It can also affect hormone levels, which raises the risk for breast cancer in particular.

Australians unaware of the risk

While the harms are well-known to researchers, many Australians remain unaware.

Figures vary, but at best only 59% of us know about the direct link between alcohol and cancer (and at worst, just one in five are aware).

Perhaps the best evidence this message has failed to sink in is our continued love affair with alcohol.

In 2022–23 69% of us drank alcohol, with one in three doing so at levels deemed risky by the National Health and Medical Research Council. For both men and women, that means having more than ten standard drinks per week or more than four in one day.

Read more:
Mother’s little helper: interviews with Australian women show a complex relationship with alcohol

What are other countries doing?

Like Australia, the US already has warnings on alcohol about its impacts on unborn children and a person’s ability to operate cars and machinery.

The US Surgeon General wants additional explicit warnings about cancer risk to be compulsory.

Alcohol packaging in Australia warns about pregnancy risk.
Adam Calaitzis/Shutterstock

This follows Ireland, the first country to mandate cancer labels for alcohol. From 2026, alcohol packaging will include the warning: “there is a direct link between alcohol and fatal cancers”.

Other countries, including Norway and Thailand, are also reportedly investigating cancer warning labels.

Since 2017, alcohol producers in South Korea have had to choose between three compulsory warning labels – two of which warn of cancer risks. However they can instead opt for a label which warns about alcohol’s risks for dementia, stroke and memory loss.

Will Australia follow suit?

Australian health bodies have been advocating for cancer warnings on drink packaging for over a decade.

Currently, whether to include warnings about alcohol’s general health risks is at the discretion of the manufacturer.

Many use vague “drink responsibly” messages or templates provided by DrinkWise, an organisation funded by the alcohol industry.

Pregnancy warning labels (“Alcohol can cause lifelong harm to your baby”) only became obligatory in 2023. Although this covers just one of alcohol’s established health effects, it has set an important precedent.

We now have a template for how introducing cancer and other health warnings might work.

With pregnancy labels, the government consulted public health and industry bodies and gave a three-year transition period for manufacturers to adjust. We even have examples of colour and formatting of required labels that could be adapted.

Perhaps most promisingly, four in five surveyed Australians support adding these cancer-specific warnings.

Cancer warnings already feature on some tobacco products in Australia.
Galexia/Shutterstock

Would it work?

We know the existing “drink responsibly”-style warnings are not enough. Research shows consumers find these messages ambiguous.

But would warnings about cancer be an improvement? Ireland’s rules are yet to come into effect, and it’s too early to tell how well South Korea’s policy has worked (there are also limitations give manufacturers can choose a warning not related to cancer).

But a trial of cancer warnings in one Canadian liquor store found they increased knowledge of the alcohol–cancer link by 10% among store customers.

Cancer messages would likely increase awareness about risks. But more than that – a 2016 study that tested cancer warnings on a group of 1,680 adults across Australia found they were also effective at reducing people’s intentions to drink.

The evidence suggests a similar policy could replicate the success of cancer warnings on cigarette packaging – first introduced in the 1970s – at increasing knowledge about risks and reducing consumption. Smoking rates in Australian adults have declined steadily since these warnings were first introduced.

It may take years before Australia changes its rules on alcohol labelling.

In the meantime, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the current national low-risk drinking guidelines, which aim to minimise harm from alcohol across a range of health conditions.

Rachel Visontay receives funding from the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales.

Louise Mewton receives funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Dementa Australia, Australian Rotary Health, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care (DoHAC).

– ref. Should Australia mandate cancer warnings for alcoholic drinks? – https://theconversation.com/should-australia-mandate-cancer-warnings-for-alcoholic-drinks-246890

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

February 4, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s Project 2025 agenda caps decades-long resistance to 20th century progressive reform

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Colin Gordon, Professor of History, University of Iowa

There has long been a tug-of-war over White House plans to make government more liberal or more conservative. Douglas Rissing/iStock / Getty Images Plus

For much of the 20th century, efforts to remake government were driven by a progressive desire to make the government work for regular Americans, including the New Deal and the Great Society reforms.

But they also met a conservative backlash seeking to rein back government as a source of security for working Americans and realign it with the interests of private business. That backlash is the central thread of the Heritage Foundation’s “Project 2025” blueprint for a second Trump Administration.

Alternatively disavowed and embraced by President Donald Trump during his 2024 campaign, Project 2025 is a collection of conservative policy proposals – many written by veterans of his first administration. It echoes similar projects, both liberal and conservative, setting out a bold agenda for a new administration.

But Project 2025 does so with particular detail and urgency, hoping to galvanize dramatic change before the midterm elections in 2026. As its foreword warns: “Conservatives have just two years and one shot to get this right.”

The standard for a transformational “100 days” – a much-used reference point for evaluating an administration – belongs to the first administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Social Security Bill in Washington on Aug. 14, 1935.
AP Photo, file

Social reforms and FDR

In 1933, in the depths of the Great Depression, Roosevelt faced a nation in which business activity had stalled, nearly a third of the workforce was unemployed, and economic misery and unrest were widespread.

But Roosevelt’s so-called “New Deal” unfolded less as a grand plan to combat the Depression than as a scramble of policy experimentation.

Roosevelt did not campaign on what would become the New Deal’s singular achievements, which included expansive relief programs, subsidies for farmers, financial reforms, the Social Security system, the minimum wage and federal protection of workers’ rights.

Those achievements came haltingly after two years of frustrated or ineffective policymaking. And those achievements rested less on Roosevelt’s political vision than on the political mobilization and demands made by American workers.

A generation later, another wave of social reforms unfolded in similar fashion. This time it was not general economic misery that spurred actions, but the persistence of inequality – especially racial inequality – in an otherwise prosperous time.

LBJ’s Great Society

President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society programs declared a war on poverty and, toward that end, introduced a raft of new federal initiatives in urban, education and civil rights.

These included the provision of medical care for the poor and older people via Medicaid and Medicare, a dramatic expansion of federal aid for K-12 education, and landmark voting rights and civil rights legislation.

As with the New Deal, the substance of these policies rested less with national policy designs than with the aspirations and mobilization of the era’s social movements.

Resistance to policy change

Since the 1930s, conservative policy agendas have largely taken the form of reactions to the New Deal and the Great Society.

The central message has routinely been that “big government” has overstepped its bounds and trampled individual rights, and that the architects of those reforms are not just misguided but treasonous. Project 2025, in this respect, promises not just a political right turn but to “defeat the anti-American left.”

After the 1946 midterm elections, congressional Republicans struck back at the New Deal. Drawing on business opposition to the New Deal, popular discontent with postwar inflation, and common cause with Southern Democrats, they stemmed efforts to expand the New Deal, gutting a full employment proposal and defeating national health insurance.

They struck back at organized labor with the 1947 Taft-Hartley Act, which undercut federal law by allowing states to pass anti-union “right to work” laws. And they launched an infamous anti-communist purge of the civil service, which forced nearly 15,000 people out of government jobs.

In 1971, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce commissioned Lewis Powell – who would be appointed by Republican President Richard Nixon to the Supreme Court the next year – to assess the political landscape. Powell’s memorandum characterized the political climate at the dawn of the 1970s – including both Great Society programs and the anti-war and Civil Rights movements of the 1960s – as nothing less than an “attack on the free enterprise system.”

In a preview of current U.S. politics, Powell’s memorandum devoted special attention to a disquieting “chorus of criticism” coming from “the perfectly respectable elements of society: from the college campus, the pulpit, the media, the intellectual and literary journals, the arts and sciences, and from politicians.”

Powell characterized the social policies of the New Deal and Great Society as “socialism or some sort of statism” and advocated the elevation of business interests and business priorities to the center of American political life.

A copy of Project 2025 is held during the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 21, 2024, in Chicago.
AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

Building a conservative infrastructure

Powell captured the conservative zeitgeist at the onset of what would become a long and decisive right turn in American politics. More importantly, it helped galvanize the creation of a conservative infrastructure – in the courts, in the policy world, in universities and in the media – to push back against that “chorus of criticism.”

This political shift would yield an array of organizations and initiatives, including the political mobilization of business, best represented by the emergence of the Koch brothers and the powerful libertarian conservative political advocacy group they founded, known as Americans for Prosperity. It also yielded a new wave of conservative voices on radio and television and a raft of right-wing policy shops and think tanks – including the Heritage Foundation, creator of Project 2025.

In national politics, the conservative resurgence achieved full expression in President Ronald Reagan’s 1980 campaign. The “Reagan Revolution” united economic and social conservatives around the central goal of dismantling what was left of the New Deal and Great Society.

Powell’s triumph was evident across the policy landscape. Reagan gutted social programs, declared war on organized labor, pared back economic and social regulations – or declined to enforce them – and slashed taxes on business and the wealthy.

Publicly, the Reagan administration argued that tax cuts would pay for themselves, with the lower rates offset by economic growth. Privately, it didn’t matter: Either growth would sustain revenues, or the resulting budgetary hole could be used to “starve the beast” and justify further program cuts.

Reagan’s vision, and its shaky fiscal logic, were reasserted in the “Contract with America” proposed by congressional Republicans after their gains in the 1994 midterm elections.

This declaration of principles proposed deep cuts to social programs alongside tax breaks for business. It was perhaps most notable for encouraging the Clinton administration to pass the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996, “ending welfare as we know it,” as Clinton promised.

Aiming at the ‘deep state’

Project 2025, the latest in this series of blueprints for dramatic change, draws most deeply on two of those plans.

As in the congressional purges of 1940s, it takes aim not just at policy but at the civil servants – Trump’s “deep state” – who administer it.

In the wake of World War II, the charge was that feckless bureaucrats served Soviet masters. Today, Project 2025 aims to “bring the Administrative State to heel, and in the process defang and defund the woke culture warriors who have infiltrated every last institution in America.”

As in the 1971 Powell memorandum, Project 2025 promises to mobilize business power; to “champion the dynamic genius of free enterprise against the grim miseries of elite-directed socialism.”

Whatever their source – party platforms, congressional bomb-throwers, think tanks, private interests – the success or failure of these blueprints rested not on their vision or popular appeal but on the political power that accompanied them. The New Deal and Great Society gained momentum and meaning from the social movements that shaped their agendas and held them to account.

The lineage of conservative responses has been largely an assertion of business power. Whatever populist trappings the second Trump administration may possess, the bottom line of the conservative cultural and political agenda in 2025 is to dismantle what is left of the New Deal or the Great Society, and to defend unfettered “free enterprise” against critics and alternatives.

Colin Gordon receives funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Mellon Foundation, and the Russell Sage Foundation.

– ref. Trump’s Project 2025 agenda caps decades-long resistance to 20th century progressive reform – https://theconversation.com/trumps-project-2025-agenda-caps-decades-long-resistance-to-20th-century-progressive-reform-247176

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: North Korea: Kim Jong-un is sending a second wave of soldiers to Ukraine – here’s why

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jennifer Mathers, Senior Lecturer in International Politics, Aberystwyth University

North Korea is believed to be preparing to send another group of soldiers to come to Vladimir Putin’s aid in the war in Ukraine, despite heavy combat losses already suffered by troops from the east Asian country.

When Ukrainian forces crossed the border into the Kursk region of Russia in August 2024, Ukraine’s military commanders hoped that their surprise move would force Moscow to withdraw troops from eastern Ukraine to defend Russia’s own territory. Kyiv did not expect its troops to end up fighting North Koreans.

Neither Moscow nor Pyongyang have officially confirmed that North Korean troops are fighting side by side with Russians. But South Korean intelligence has been reporting on their presence since October 2024, when approximately 1,500 North Korean special forces were observed to have arrived in Russia’s far eastern city of Vladivostok, initially for training.

This group was later joined by another 10,000 or so of their comrades (some of whom are also believed to be from North Korean special forces units). They were transported nearly 7,000 kilometres across Russia to reach the combat zone.

North Korean soldiers were first spotted fighting in the Kursk region alongside Russian forces in early December, according to the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky. By mid-January more than 40% of the North Koreans are believed to have been killed, injured, missing or captured – with as many as 1,000 thought to have been killed. There are some reports that North Korean troops are now being pulled by from the front lines due to those losses, potentially for extra training.

North Korea, an isolated dictatorship with few allies, is one of Russia’s most reliable suppliers of weapons, including missiles and millions of rounds of ammunition that Russia needs to continue to fight its war against Ukraine. North Korea, however, would seem to have little reason to send its own people to risk their lives in that conflict. But North Korean soldiers appear to be at the heart of a deal struck by North Korea’s supreme leader Kim Jong-un and Russian president Vladimir Putin.

What does Putin want?

For Putin the gains are clear. His campaign in Ukraine has received a much-needed influx of trained soldiers to shore up efforts to retake Russian territory occupied by Ukrainian forces.

Although the numbers of North Korean troops are relatively small, their strategic deployment allows Russia to push the Ukrainians back without diverting any of its forces from their offensive operations in eastern Ukraine. Expectations are high that Donald Trump’s return to the White House could mean an end to the war – or at least a pause – sooner rather than later. This gives Putin an incentive to occupy as much Ukrainian territory as possible ahead of a ceasefire, when occupied areas are likely to form the basis of territorial settlements.

The suggestion that Russia is not capable of maintaining its position in Ukraine and also defending its own territory without the addition of foreign troops is very revealing.

Moscow is struggling to recruit enough of its own citizens to fight in Ukraine. This is despite offering salaries and benefits packages to prospective soldiers that are beyond generous. The lack of resistance to Kyiv’s summer incursion into Russian territory made it clear that Russia is relying upon barely trained conscripts – that is, teenage boys doing their one year of compulsory military service – to defend its borders rather than professional soldiers. And while Russia has regained control of a substantial proportion – perhaps more than 60% – of the area seized by Ukraine in the summer, this has taken nearly six months to accomplish.

What does Kim Jong-un want?

For Kim Jong-un, sending his soldiers to fight with Russia provides his troops with valuable experience of combat in a conflict that is rapidly defining how war will be waged in the future.

Since the end of the Korean War (1950-53), Pyongyang has placed a high priority on maintaining a large and heavily armed standing army. After training, North Korean soldiers are mostly used for patrolling the de-militarized zone that marks its border with South Korea. Participating in Russia’s war against Ukraine provides the North Korean military with its first experience of combat in more than 70 years.

North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine.

Observations from Ukrainian soldiers suggest the North Korean soldiers are courageous and determined fighters but with no experience of actual combat. The Ukrainians have described the North Koreans as relying on strategies typical of the second world war – for example advancing in large groups on foot, where they provide easy targets for artillery and drone strikes. They were also apparently bemused by the appearance of drones on the battlefield and had no idea that these objects could deliver lethal attacks.

This degree of inexperience, together with Russia’s tactic of using the North Koreans to draw the fire of the Ukrainians and clear the way for the Russians to advance, is believed to be the reason for such high losses so soon after their deployment.

In January the Ukrainians managed to capture two North Koreans and question them, which has provided the clearest picture so far of their experiences of fighting with the Russian armed forces. The North Korean soldiers both had false identity papers with Russian names, which is consistent with official denials of their presence. The men, who do not speak any foreign languages and had to be questioned through an interpreter, said that they had both been soldiers for several years. This supports the Ukrainians’ impression that the North Koreans are trained and disciplined. Both prisoners, however, reportedly believed they were being sent to Russia to participate in training exercises, not to fight in a war.

Considering the heavy losses and the brutal treatment that North Korean troops have already suffered, Kim Jong-un might be expected to seek the speedy return of his soldiers rather than preparing to send more of their comrades to fight with Russia. But high casualties on the battlefield seems to be a price that North Korea’s president is willing to pay for combat experience that might give his army an edge in any future war that he fights on his own behalf.

Jennifer Mathers does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. North Korea: Kim Jong-un is sending a second wave of soldiers to Ukraine – here’s why – https://theconversation.com/north-korea-kim-jong-un-is-sending-a-second-wave-of-soldiers-to-ukraine-heres-why-248339

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: The way UK inflation is worked out is changing – and it will matter for everyone

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Marcel Lukas, Senior Lecturer in Banking and Finance and Director of Executive Education, University of St Andrews

1000 Words/Shutterstock

Visit a supermarket in 2025 and you’ll see that a tub of Lurpak butter can cost £5.70. It may strike you that this represents a staggering increase from £3.65 just three years ago, so instead of paying the premium, you reach for the supermarket’s own brand at £3.80.

This kind of switch, multiplied across millions of shopping baskets, represents a massive shift in consumer behaviour that has been largely invisible to official statistics. But that’s changing, as the UK embarks on its biggest revolution in measuring living costs since the second world war.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is transforming the way it tracks inflation, moving from painstakingly checking prices to analysing millions of real purchases through supermarket scanners. Consider olive oil, the price of which surged by 47% in a year, or milk, which jumped by more than 25%. While official statistics captured these price rises, they couldn’t track how households adapted – whether by switching to cheaper alternatives, buying less, or cutting back elsewhere. This was a blind spot in our understanding of consumer behaviour.

Currently, price collectors visit stores across the country each month, checking the prices of about 25,000 products. It’s like taking a snapshot of what’s on the shelves at a particular moment. But this system, designed decades ago, often misses the real impact of inflation on different household types in things like choosing different products or switching stores.

This is crucial for understanding the real impact of inflation on lower-income households. These families often have less flexibility in their budgets and must make more dramatic changes to their shopping habits when prices rise. During recent periods of high inflation, many on low incomes found that official figures didn’t match their experience, which was of even higher inflation than the headline rates. And there’s a good reason why.

Inflation statistics aren’t just academic exercises. They drive decisions that affect every aspect of our financial lives. The Bank of England uses them to set interest rates, which in turn influence mortgage payments and savings returns. Employers use them in wage negotiations. Government uses them to adjust benefits, state pensions and tax thresholds. Even commercial contracts, including mobile phone bills and rail fares, are often linked to inflation rates.

When these numbers don’t accurately reflect price pressures, it can have serious consequences. If official figures underestimate the inflation experienced by lower-income households, benefit increases might not keep pace with their actual cost increases. Similarly, if wages don’t rise in line with real living costs, workers effectively experience a pay cut.

The scanner data revolution

The ONS’s new approach, to be introduced next year, will analyse around 300 million price points from supermarket scanners, covering about half of all grocery transactions in the UK. Instead of just seeing what’s on the shelf, they’ll know exactly what prices people are paying at checkouts across the country.

This massive increase in data points – from 25,000 to 300 million – will allow for a more nuanced understanding of consumer behaviour.

The change will also enable quicker identification of emerging price trends. After the start of the COVID pandemic and the Ukraine war, prices of certain goods changed rapidly. Scanner data could help spot these changes faster, allowing for more timely policy responses. It might also reveal regional variations in price pressures.

Take the 2023 surge in food prices – while overall food inflation hit 19%, the impact varied dramatically across households. Current statistics would not capture lower-income families switching from fresh to frozen vegetables, or from branded to value ranges.

In times of cost pressures, shoppers may switch from fresh produce to frozen.
sirtravelalot/Shutterstock

With scanner data, policymakers could spot these trends quickly and respond more precisely – perhaps by adjusting benefit payments or targeting support to specific households when essential food costs spike. Instead of waiting for quarterly surveys to reveal hardship, they will be able to see in real time how different groups are coping with price pressures.

The ONS recently said full implementation will come in 2026, a year later than planned. While it will have the technical capability ready by March 2025, it is opting for a year of parallel running to ensure accuracy. This approach reflects how crucial these statistics are for the economy.

It has already modernised other areas of price collection, including incorporating 40 million train fare data points and 300,000 used car prices. But grocery prices, being central to household budgets and varying significantly across different income groups, require extra attention.

The change is coming at a crucial time. Recent years have shown how rapidly economic conditions can change and how differently these changes can affect various segments of society. The pandemic, Brexit adjustments, and global supply chain disruptions have all contributed to price pressures.

For consumers, while the changes won’t directly lower prices, they could lead to more appropriate responses from the Bank of England, government and employers. Most importantly, it could ensure that official inflation figures better reflect the reality of the weekly shop, particularly during times of economic stress.

The transformation of inflation statistics might seem like a technical detail, but its implications reach far beyond government offices and economic reports. It’s about ensuring that the official measures of living costs better reflect the reality experienced by millions of households across the UK. In this challenging economic environment, that’s something worth getting right.

Marcel Lukas receives funding from the British Academy. He is the Director of Executive Education at the University of St Andrews and Fellow of the ONS. The presented views are his own and do not represent the ONS.

– ref. The way UK inflation is worked out is changing – and it will matter for everyone – https://theconversation.com/the-way-uk-inflation-is-worked-out-is-changing-and-it-will-matter-for-everyone-248514

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Bookkeeper Sentenced To Prison For Stealing More Than $1.6 Million From Two Small Businesses

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Marc Weiss, 50, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 40 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for embezzling approximately $1.6 million from two small businesses, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison term imposed, Weiss was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,644,235.77.

Jason Byrnes, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Charlotte Field Office, and Sheriff Darren Campbell of the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

According to filed court documents and the sentencing hearing, from 2016 to 2022, Weiss engaged in a scheme to defraud two Mooresville, N.C. small businesses that employed him as a bookkeeper. Over the course of the scheme, Weiss, who was a trusted employee, abused his position and access to the companies’ financial accounts to make more than 100 fraudulent transfers totaling $1.6 million from the companies’ accounts into bank accounts under Weiss’s control. Court documents show that Weiss began to embezzle from the second company while he was already stealing from the first one. To disguise the fraud, Weiss created fake entries in the victim companies’ books and records, categorizing the fraudulent transfers as payments to existing vendors for software development, and advertising and marketing expenses.

According to court records, Weiss used the embezzled funds, in part, to pay for his personal lifestyle, including rent payments for a luxury apartment uptown; payments for high-end vehicles, including an Audi and a Mercedes-Benz; purchases at luxury retail stores, including Luis Vuitton, Gucci, Neiman Marcus, and Tiffany, among others; and luxury vacations, including multiple stays in The Ritz Carlton hotel.

In October 2023, Weiss pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the U.S. Secret Service and the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney William Bozin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New campaign puts the focus on food waste

Source: City of Canterbury

Home » Latest News » New campaign puts the focus on food waste

A campaign gets underway today (Monday 3 February) to try and boost the uptake of food waste collections across the district.

Our officers have been working with counterparts at Kent County Council on the project.

Over the next few weeks, ‘no food waste stickers’ will be placed on the black bins of properties that are suitable for food waste collections, encouraging residents to use their food caddies instead.

And in recognition of the fact that not everybody has an outdoor food caddy, these are being offered to residents at the discounted price of just £10.

These can be ordered on the website at that price for a limited period.

This project does not mean that people who continue to use their black bin for food waste will not get it emptied. Black bin collections will continue unchanged.

But we are hoping it will result in residents thinking about how they dispose of their food waste and changing their behaviour to improve recycling rates.

Food caddies are emptied weekly using a separate vehicle and are easy to rinse out and keep clean.

Residents can place any raw or cooked food in their caddy to be recycled, but not anything that is not solid food, such as oils, liquids or packaging of any sort.

The project has been funded jointly by us and KCC, and because recycling food uses less energy and is less costly than burning food waste mixed with general rubbish, the money spent on it should be recovered by lower disposal costs in the future. 

Published: 3 February 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Shakopee Woman Pleads Guilty in $250 Million Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MINNEAPOLIS – A Shakopee woman pleaded guilty for her role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

According to court documents, at times between October 2020 and January 2022, Mekfira Hussein knowingly and willfully conspired with others to participate in a fraudulent scheme to obtain and misappropriate millions in federal child nutrition funds. Specifically, Hussein and her husband, Abduljabar Hussein, fraudulently obtained millions of dollars in federal child nutrition program funds by falsely claiming to have served meals to thousands of children per day.

According to court documents, in October 2020, the defendant enrolled her non-profit, Shamsia Hopes, in the Federal Child Nutrition Program under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future, at the direction of one of its employees, Abdikerm Eidleh. The defendant submitted her application to Aimee Bock, Feeding Our Future’s executive director. In December 2020, and also at the direction of Abdikerm Eidleh, the defendant’s husband registered his company, Oromia Feeds LLC, with the State of Minnesota as a food vendor. Abduljabar Hussein’s company, Oromia Feeds, had a contract to prepare meals to be served by Shamsia Hopes sites run by Mekfira Hussein.

According to the plea agreement entered today, Hussein submitted fraudulently inflated invoices for reimbursement—including inflated meal counts and false attendance rosters. As part of their scheme, the defendant and her husband paid at least $140,000 in kickbacks to Eidleh and least $12,000 in kickbacks to Aimee Bock. In some instances, these kickback payments were disguised as “consulting fees,” when, in fact, neither Eidleh nor Aimee Bock provided any service to justify these payments. In other instances, Feeding Our Future billed hundreds of thousands of dollars in Federal Child Nutrition Program claims under the name of the defendant’s organization, Shamsia Hopes, without the defendant’s knowledge or authorization, and Feeding Our Future siphoned those funds to others involved in the conspiracy.

Throughout the fraudulent conspiracy, the Husseins obtained up to $8.8 million in federal child nutrition program funds some of which they used to pay for personal expenditures unrelated to feeing children. For instance, the defendant and her husband used $173,438 of their proceeds to pay off the mortgage on their home in Shakopee, Minnesota, and also purchased a 2021 Porsche for $93,250, a 2022 GMC truck for $61,722.

Hussein pleaded guilty last Friday in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Her sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert, Joseph H. Thompson, and Harry M. Jacobs are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced To 7 Years For Possession Of Firearm

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Sherron Gary (41, Tampa) to seven years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Gary pleaded guilty in October 2024.

According to court documents, on April 9, 2023, officers with the Tampa Police Department (TPD) attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Gary after observing the vehicle had a broken taillight. Gary failed to pull over and instead fled from the officers at a high rate of speed. A police helicopter followed Gary. After Gary’s vehicle was boxed in by law enforcement, Gary fled from the officers on foot, which the helicopter was also able to capture.

As Gary fled, the helicopter crew observed Gary discard an item as he was running that resembled a firearm. TPD officers apprehended Gary. After the arrest, the helicopter crew directed officers back to the location where they had observed Gary discard the firearm. Officers located a 9mm Walther Creed semiautomatic pistol at the location.

At the time, Gary had four prior felony convictions, including aggravated battery and armed burglary of a dwelling, trafficking of cocaine, delivery of cocaine, and delivery of cocaine within 1,000 feet of church. As a convicted felon, Gary is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Marystown, Bonavista, and Deer Lake — Three motorists arrested for impaired operation by RCMP NL this past weekend

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Three motorists, one in Marystown, one in Bonavista and one in Deer Lake, were arrested for impaired driving this past weekend by RCMP NL.

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, shortly before 2:00 a.m., Burin Peninsula RCMP received a report of a suspected impaired driver at a commercial property in Marystown. Police attended the area, located the described vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The driver, a 25-year-old man, showed signs of alcohol impairment, resisted arrest and threatened a police officer. At the detachment, the man provided breath samples that were twice the legal limit.

Later in the day, shortly after 7:30 a.m., Bonavista RCMP responded to the report of a motor vehicle crash on Route 230 near Bonavista. Officers attended the scene and observed a vehicle resting on its roof on the roadway. The driver, a 37-year-old man, failed to remain at the scene of the collision and departed prior to police arrival. He was located a short time later at a residence, showed signs of alcohol impairment and was arrested. At the detachment, the man provided breath samples that were more than one and a half times the legal limit.

The next day, on Sunday, February 2, 2025, shortly before 1:00 p.m., RCMP Traffic Services West stopped a vehicle on Commerce Street in Deer Lake. The driver, a 59-year-old man, showed signs of alcohol impairment, failed a roadside breath test and was arrested. At the detachment, the man provided breath samples that were more than twice the legal limit.

All three drivers are set to appear in court at later dates to answer to charges of impaired operation. One driver faces additional charges of resisting arrest and uttering threats. Another motorist was ticketed for failing to remain at the scene of a crash. The three drivers also received licence suspensions and their vehicles were seized and impounded.

RCMP NL has zero tolerance for those who choose to drive while impaired. Please report suspected impaired drivers to your local police detachment or call 911.

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Reading Man Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Trafficking Methamphetamine

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Carlos Rodriguez, age 31, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on January 14, 2025, to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on August 16, 2022, law enforcement utilized a confidential informant to arrange for Rodriguez to bring a re-supply of methamphetamine to him. Rodriguez was stopped in Northumberland by law enforcement and approximately 480 grams of methamphetamine was recovered from his vehicle.

This case was investigated by the Clinton County Drug Task Force, Office of the Pennsylvania Attorney General, the Pine Creek Township Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses

Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged by indictment are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Advocating for $1.07 Billion to Rebuild Western NC
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Governor Josh Stein Advocating for $1.07 Billion to Rebuild Western NC

Governor Josh Stein Advocating for $1.07 Billion to Rebuild Western NC
bwood
Mon, 02/03/2025 – 10:42

Raleigh, NC
Governor Josh Stein today requested $1.07 billion in immediate funding to support urgent rebuilding needs in western North Carolina. Governor Stein’s budget request includes funds to strengthen the economy, get people back into homes faster, repair infrastructure, support farmers, fix private roads and bridges, remove debris, and help school children stay at grade level.

“The people of western North Carolina have suffered tremendously since Helene swept through,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I appreciate what the General Assembly has done so far, but it’s time for us to step up and get them the money they need right now to rebuild. We can’t forget western North Carolina – and I will do everything in my power to ensure that the state shows up for them.”

Governor Stein made his budget request at MANNA Food Bank, which works with over 300 community-based nonprofit food assistance partner agencies in 16 western North Carolina counties.

“MANNA has been an essential resource for the people it serves, and its work has become even more critical since Hurricane Helene struck,” said Governor Stein. “As these organizations continue the daily work of supporting their community, we have a responsibility to support them.”
The Governor’s budget request includes funding in the following categories. An overview of some of the programs is below; full request details are available here.

Strengthening the Economy

$150 million across two grant programs for businesses that suffered physical damage or significant economic loss.

$30 million for grants to small towns and counties to rebuild downtowns and other business districts.

$15 million to the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s VisitNC division to support North Carolina’s tourism industry and to attract travelers and new businesses to the area.

$100 million for revenue replacement grants to support local governments whose resources were exhausted by immediate disaster response, as they work to keep water and sewer services going, pay law enforcement, and support school operations.

Providing Safe and Warm Places to Live

$150 million for a Helene Home Construction and Repair Program to immediately start rebuilding the estimated 5,100 homes that will need to be rebuilt post-Helene.

$25 million to support people struggling to afford rent, mortgage, or utility costs because their home or livelihood was affected.

$10 million for Back@Home, a program that supports people who are without homes and provides them with case management support.

$50 million in incentives for affordable housing construction.

$25 million to fill in gaps for home repairs that are not covered by FEMA.

Repairing Infrastructure

$75 million to repair private roads and bridges.

$25 million to clean up local parks and greenways in affected areas.

$12 million to expedite debris removal.

$10 million to provide backup power for emergency operations and other critical infrastructure.

$4 million to repair septic systems.

Supporting Farmers

$15 million for grants to farmers for verified uninsured losses to crops, livestock, aquaculture, and infrastructure.

$100 million to help farmers clear debris and repair their land and waterways so they can resume production and protect against future flooding.

$19.4 million to prepare for the wildfire season and mitigate future risk.

Caring For Families and Children

$34.2 million for school districts that missed 15 or more days of school to provide summer instruction and other support services to ensure students continue to perform at grade level on End of Grade and End of Course assessments.

$20 million to fund food banks in affected areas.

$2 million to help college students who are struggling to pay tuition, fees, or emergency expenses that might force them to drop out of school at UNC Asheville, Appalachian State University, and Western Carolina University.
Feb 3, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –
February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Luján: Trump Tariffs Will Hit New Mexico Families, Increase Everyday Prices

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

Reporting Shows Tariffs Could Lead to Cost Increase for Gas, Groceries

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, issued the following statement on President Trump’s announcement to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada and 10% tariffs on China:

“From the price at the pump to the cost of groceries, President Trump’s tariffs will leave New Mexico families footing the bill. The Trump Tariffs will drive up costs for groceries, gas, cars, and electronics that Americans depend on. At the same time President Trump is pushing a tax scam that benefits the wealthiest Americans, working families will be forced to pay the price.

“The Trump Tariffs will result in tariffs against American products, putting American jobs, businesses, and industries at risk. These tariffs will weaken the economy, raise prices for everyday families, and hurt the American people. Republicans and Democrats, and all Americans, should be concerned that the Trump administration is needlessly threatening the economy that we worked hard to rebuild and grow.

“My colleagues and I remain committed to combating the fentanyl crisis, and I have long called for increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl and save lives, but these tariffs will not accomplish that.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 4, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Steam toys take centre stage at pumping station event

Source: City of Leicester

STEAM-POWERED toys, boats and trains will take centre stage at Leicester’s Abbey Pumping Station later this month.

Tickets are now on sale for the popular Steam Toys in Action event, which will give visitors the chance to go back in time and enjoy a nostalgic day out, with a wide range of steam-powered toys and vintage vehicles on display.

Historic fire engines, vintage buses, a milk float and an old electric bread van will be amongst the vehicles on show at the event on Sunday 23 February, while visitors will also be able to see the pumping station’s magnificent beam engine in full steam.

There will be rides on the steam-powered narrow-gauge railway (50p charge), with the grand opening of the Forget Me Not mini railway – built and maintained by the dedicated volunteers of the Leicester Museums Technology Association – taking place at 2pm.

The pumping station’s café will be open for refreshments, while a vintage coal-fired chip van will be selling freshly-fried chips.

Steam Toys in Action runs from 12 noon until 4.30pm on Sunday 23 February at the Abbey Pumping Station.

Tickets can be bought online at a reduced price of £6 for adults, £2 for children (no charge for the under-fives) and £5 for students and those aged 60 and over. A family ticket (two adults, two children) is £15 when bought in advance.

Tickets bought on the door are £7 for adults, £3 for children, £6 for concessions and £18 for a family ticket.

For more information about Steam Toys in Action, visit leicestermuseums.org/Steam-Toys-2025 or call the Abbey Pumping Station on 0116 299 5111.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 4, 2025

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